Should Panda Garra be considered a shoaling fish?

[jaylach]

From what I find through searches the answer is no, they are not and are fine with being alone. Yet I question this. I have four of the beasties and even though they will at times flit around the tank solo usually there are at least two of them next to each other and often three and all four together in a group. Goes as far as, after they settle down when the lights are off, they will huddle all four together While they may not need a group it seems that they like a group. And I use the words 'settle down' loosely as they really never do. They are like humming birds and seem to never stop. Actually they are a trip and really fun to watch. They are so quick I sometimes wonder if they teleport...

Anyway, if any have experience, would you consider that they prefer a group even if they are not a true shoaling critter? While I don't have a clue it might even be a mating thing but I doubt that as, being only 1-1/4 inches on averages, I would think them to still be juvenile.

 

[Byron]

Seriously Fish terms this species as existing in loose aggregations in the wild.

If kept singly it tends to behave more aggressively with similarly-shaped fishes so we recommend the purchase of 3-4 or more should space permit. Such a group will develop a noticeable pecking order between themselves but tankmates are more likely to be left alone. What appear to be hierarchical disputes will sometimes occur and involve charging, flaring of fins and an overall paling of the body colouration.​

Your small group would appear to be right in line with this information. The source of much if not all of this seems to have been Dr. Sven Kullander, who along with Dr. F. Fang, described this and six other species from the Myanmar habitat.

 

[anewbie]

i have a group of 6 and i find they mostly hang out in the same general location in my 40...

 

[jaylach]

Thanks to both. LOL! I guess that I'll just consider them loners that like to hang out and party.