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L191 Royal Farlowella
Sturisoma aureum
Also known as L191, Royal Farlowella L191, Colombian Farlowella
Animalia›Chordata›Siluriformes›Loricariidae
The L191 Royal Farlowella is a slender, elegant wood catfish native to South American rivers, prized for its striking appearance and algae-eating capabilities. This species features a long, whip-like tail and a streamlined body that allows it to navigate through dense vegetation and driftwood. They are peaceful, nocturnal fish that make excellent additions to planted and community aquariums.
Where it's from
Native to the Atrato, Baudo, Magdalena and Rancheria river basins
Colombia
At a glance
- Size
- 5.5 in
- 14 cm
- Min tank
- 40 gal
- 151 L
- Temp
- 72–79°F
- 22–26°C
- pH
- 6.0-7.5
- GH
- 71–143 ppm
- 4–8 dGH
- Temperament
- Peaceful
- Swims
- Bottom
- Lifespan
- 5-8 yrs
Ammonia 0 ppm and nitrate under 20 ppm.
Care
Diet
Royal Farlowellas are primarily herbivorous and feed on algae, biofilm, and plant matter. Supplement their diet with high-quality algae wafers, blanched zucchini, spinach, and cucumber several times weekly. They are nocturnal feeders, so provide food in the evening or at night for best results.
Behavior
These catfish are nocturnal and spend most of the day resting on driftwood or plants, becoming more active during evening hours. They are peaceful bottom-dwellers that rarely interact with other fish, preferring to graze on algae and biofilm. They are solitary by nature but can coexist peacefully with other non-aggressive species.
Breeding
Breeding in captivity is extremely difficult and rarely documented in home aquariums. They require very specific water conditions, mature driftwood for spawning sites, and pristine water quality. Success requires patience, ideal parameters, and often a dedicated breeding setup.
Tank mates
See all 6Small, peaceful schooling fish that occupy different water zones
Similar peaceful algae-eating habits and compatible water requirements
Peaceful invertebrates that share algae-grazing behavior
Peaceful mid-water dweller that won't compete for bottom space
Peaceful bottom-dweller with compatible water parameters
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Common diseases 4Ich (Ichthyophthirius multifiliis), Fin Rot, Bacterial Infection, Malnutrition
Ich (Ichthyophthirius multifiliis)
White spots on body and fins, scratching against surfaces, labored breathing
Increase temperature gradually to 28-30 C (82-86 F), use ich medication, perform frequent water changes, ensure excellent water quality
Fin Rot
Frayed or deteriorating fins, discoloration at fin edges, lethargy
Improve water quality with frequent water changes, remove decaying matter, use antibacterial medication if severe, ensure pristine tank conditions
Bacterial Infection
Open sores, cloudy eyes, loss of appetite, erratic behavior
Perform large water changes, use broad-spectrum antibiotic medication, isolate affected fish if possible, maintain optimal water parameters
Malnutrition
Weight loss, pale coloration, reduced activity, stunted growth
Provide varied diet of quality algae wafers, vegetables, and biofilm-rich surfaces, ensure adequate feeding frequency, supplement with spirulina-based foods
Legality
No state or federal restrictions on record.
Not legal advice, and possibly incomplete or out of date. Rules vary by state and change over time; check with your state wildlife or agriculture agency before buying, keeping or shipping it.
The care information here is written with AI help, so it can contain mistakes. Spot one? Tell us and we'll fix it. Native range: Tedesco et al. 2017 (CC0).
At a glance
- Size
- 5.5 in14 cm
- Min tank
- 40 gal151 L
- Temp
- 72–79°F22–26°C
- pH
- 6.0-7.5
- GH
- 71–143 ppm4–8 dGH
- Temperament
- Peaceful
- Swims
- Bottom
- Lifespan
- 5-8 yrs
Ammonia 0 ppm and nitrate under 20 ppm.
Keepers’ experiences
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