Where to Buy Garra Rufa (Doctor Fish) and Everything You Should Know
Have you ever visited a spa and experienced the gentle exfoliation of tiny fish nibbling away dead skin? If so, chances are you encountered Garra Rufa—also known as Doctor Fish. After your first experience with them, you might get hooked. To create a fish spa at home, the journey begins with sourcing, shipping, and then caring for these unique fish, and could be a most fulfilling experience.
This guide covers everything you need to know, including:
- Where to buy Garra Rufa
- How they are shipped
- What to order and why
- Detailed care tips
- Ethical considerations
Why Garra Rufa?
Garra Rufa are small freshwater fish native to parts of the Middle East, particularly Turkey, Syria, Iran, and Iraq. These fish are famed for their use in “fish spas,” where they gently nibble away dead skin, providing a natural form of exfoliation.
What makes them unique is their peaceful nature and ability to live harmoniously in community tanks. They also feed on biofilm and algae, which makes them natural cleaners for aquariums.
Where to Buy Garra Rufa (Doctor Fish)
There are several trusted suppliers where you can purchase Garra Rufa:
- Amazon – Our go-to supplier. They offer Garra Rufa in different life stages, with safety pack, guaranteed “live” delivery, feeding guides, super-fast shipping and other supplies (including tanks, food, filters) .
- Aquatic Arts – Known for their healthy stock and care information.
- AZ Gardens – Offers Garra Rufa as part of their algae-eating collection.
- Aqua Huna – Specializes in live fish shipping, although selection can vary.
Each supplier varies in pricing, availability, and minimum order quantity, so do your homework before placing an order.
Pricing
At Amazon, each Garra Rufa cost around $6.67 and availablein a pack of six.
- Adults – For breeding experiments and to complete spa setup.
- Juveniles – To grow and populate the main tank over time.
- Fry – Mostly out of curiosity and for observing growth patterns.
A good mix allows you to create a balanced environment and watch their development over several months.
Shipping and Packaging
Shipping live fish requires meticulous care, and Amazon impressed us with their packaging process. Here’s what stood out:
- Plastic Bag Sealing
Each fish was placed in a plastic bag with sealed bottom seams to avoid entrapment in folds. The bag was then oxygenated and quadruple-banded to prevent leaks. - Double-Bagged Protection
Each sealed bag was enclosed in another, creating a dual-layer leak barrier. - Insulation & Temperature Control
All bags were placed inside a third bag and then secured in a thick styrofoam chest, complete with temperature packs (hot or cold) to stabilize the internal environment. - Exterior Carton
Finally, everything was enclosed in a durable cardboard box, clearly labeled “LIVE FISH” to ensure careful handling during transit.
The fish arrived in excellent condition, healthy and active.
Setting Up Your Own Fish Spa
Once your Garra Rufa arrive, it’s time to get them settled. Here’s how to approach it:
Tank Requirements
- Size: A 30-gallon tank is a good starting point for a small group. Larger tanks are recommended for more fish.
- Filtration: Use a high-quality filter to maintain water clarity.
- Lighting: Moderate lighting promotes algae growth, which these fish love.
- Substrate & Decor: Smooth gravel, driftwood, and rocks give them places to rest and graze.
Water Parameters
- Temperature: 77°F – 86°F (25°C – 30°C)
- pH: 6.5 – 7.5
- Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water
- Oxygenation: Ensure the tank is well-aerated.
Use a heater and thermometer to maintain a stable temperature. Perform weekly water changes of 20-30% to keep the tank clean.
Feeding
Although Garra Rufa naturally feed on dead skin and algae, they require a balanced diet to thrive:
- Commercial Fish Food – Use sinking pellets or flakes.
- Vegetables – Blanched spinach, zucchini, or peas.
- Protein – Bloodworms or brine shrimp (frozen or live).
Breeding Garra Rufa
Breeding Garra Rufa in captivity is possible but requires patience and proper setup.
Essentials for Breeding
- Separate Breeding Tank: Keep adults and fry separated.
- Temperature & Light Control: Slight temperature fluctuations mimic seasonal changes and trigger breeding behavior.
- Diet: Feed breeding adults a protein-rich diet.
I started with a group of adults and observed their behavior over weeks. While I haven’t yet seen active breeding, I’m preparing by researching their mating habits extensively. Patience is key, and I plan to share updates in a future post—perhaps even a video.
Maintenance and Health
Maintaining Garra Rufa is relatively easy:
- Regular Cleaning: Vacuum substrate and clean filter media monthly.
- Monitor Behavior: Watch for signs of stress or illness like erratic swimming or loss of appetite.
- Tank Mates: Choose peaceful species like Corydoras or Tetras.
Avoid sharp decorations that can injure their delicate mouths. Quarantine new additions to prevent disease spread.
Legal and Ethical Considerations
Before purchasing Garra Rufa, it’s important to understand local regulations.
- Legal Restrictions: Some regions (including parts of the U.S. and Canada) have banned fish pedicures due to health concerns. Check your local laws.
- Ethics: Be mindful that spa treatments can stress the fish if not managed properly. Always prioritize their welfare.
If you’re keeping Garra Rufa for personal enjoyment or as pets, ensure they have an appropriate environment and aren’t overworked.
Where to Buy Garra Rufa (Doctor Fish) – Final Thoughts
Buying Garra Rufa and setting up a home fish spa has been one of the most enjoyable and educational hobbies I’ve taken on. From ordering and shipping to setting up the tank and beginning breeding efforts, every step has been deeply rewarding.
If you’re interested in these fascinating little fish, do your research, choose a reputable supplier, and give them the care they deserve. You won’t regret it!