Garra rufa are benthic fish, living on the bottom and hiding among the rocks and vegetation. They are thought to prefer fast moving water but they are also found in small ponds and lakes. All fish require a stable environment with good water quality at the correct temperature in order to remain healthy. Their natural water temperature range is subtropical, the water should be well oxygenated, using air-pumps and air-stones. The filtration system should maintain good water quality, free from pollution by metabolic waste products. Regular water quality tests should be performed by personnel with some understanding of the nitrogen cycle and filtration system so that appropriate action can be taken promptly if the water quality deteriorates.Garra rufa are omnivorous and naturally feed on aufwuchs, a biofilm of organisms such as algae, plankton and small invertebrates that live on the submerged surfaces in aquatic environments.