Origin
Endemic to upland rivers and streams in Thailand’s Mae Klong and Khwae Noi basins. Prefers fast-flowing, oxygen-rich rocky habitats.

Visual & Behavioral Appeal
Features a mottled black and cream banding across the body and fins, with a squat, torpedo shape. Uses a modified lower lip to cling to surfaces in current. Constantly grazes, contributing to naturalistic movement in aquascapes.

Purpose
Functions as an efficient algae and biofilm grazer, especially on hardscape surfaces. Adds foraging behavior and diversity to river-style setups. Its unique movement provides visual texture along the substrate.

Importance
Ideal for aquascapers aiming to balance biofilm and algae naturally. More peaceful and communal than many other Garra species. Rarely disturbs tankmates or uproots plants.

Included Resources
Requires moderate to high flow, strong aeration, and access to biofilm or supplemental food. Rounded stones, driftwood, and moss help promote natural foraging behavior. Prefers sandy or smooth substrates.

Best Use Cases
Excellent for hillstream and river biotopes, community aquariums with rasboras, danios, or loaches. Especially suitable for Southeast Asian aquascapes focused on flow and algae balance.

Conservation Context
Locally restricted in distribution. Ethical sourcing from breeders is essential to protect wild populations and habitat integrity.

Ideal Aquatic Species
• Hillstream loaches
• White Cloud Mountain minnows
• Danios (esp. zebra or glowlight)
• Peaceful barbs
• Amano shrimp

Region (A)
• Latitude: 15.2389° N
• Longitude: 99.4881° E
(Khwae Noi River, western Thailand)

Region (B)
• Latitude: 13.9420° N
• Longitude: 99.8173° E
(Mae Klong basin, Kanchanaburi Province, Thailand)