Otocinclus Catfish

Otocinclus, commonly referred to as Otocinclus catfish or simply "Otos," are small, peaceful, and highly sought-after freshwater fish known for their algae-eating abilities and endearing appearance. These miniature catfish are popular among aquarists for their valuable role in maintaining a clean and healthy aquarium.

Appearance: Otocinclus are among the smallest catfish species commonly kept in aquariums. They typically grow to around 1 to 2 inches (2.5 to 5 centimeters) in length. These catfish have a slender, elongated body with a sucker-like mouth designed for scraping algae from surfaces. Their coloration is typically mottled or speckled, ranging from olive green to brown, which serves as natural camouflage in their habitat.

Behavior and Personality: Otocinclus are peaceful and social fish that prefer to be kept in small groups. They are known for their diligent algae-eating behavior and can often be seen gliding along tank surfaces, including the glass, rocks, and plants, while using their specialized mouths to scrape off algae. They are generally non-aggressive and coexist well with other peaceful fish species.

Habitat and Care: To provide an ideal habitat for Otocinclus, maintain an aquarium with a minimum capacity of 10 gallons for a small group of these catfish. A well-planted tank with hiding spots and driftwood is appreciated. Water parameters should include a stable temperature between 72°F to 78°F (22°C to 26°C) and a slightly acidic to neutral pH level (around 6.5 to 7.5). Adequate filtration and regular water changes are essential to maintain water quality.

Diet: Otocinclus are primarily herbivores and are renowned for their algae-eating prowess. In the aquarium, they will consume various forms of algae, including green and brown algae. However, it's essential to provide them with supplemental algae-based foods like sinking algae wafers or blanched vegetables like zucchini or cucumber, especially if the tank's algae levels are low.

Compatibility: Otocinclus are peaceful and can coexist with a wide range of community fish species that share similar water parameters. They are often kept alongside other small, non-aggressive fish like tetras, rasboras, and peaceful dwarf cichlids. However, it's important to avoid housing them with larger or more aggressive tankmates that may stress or harm them.