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Otocinclus Catfish (Otocinclus spp.)

Care Requirements

  • Water Parameters: Otocinclus Catfish thrive in a pH range of 6.0-7.5. They prefer soft to moderately hard water with good oxygenation.
  • Temperature: The ideal temperature range for Otocinclus Catfish is 22-28°C (72-82°F).
  • Tank Setup: A planted tank with plenty of hiding spots and surfaces to graze on is ideal. Otocinclus enjoy tanks with lots of live plants, driftwood, and smooth rocks covered in algae.
  • Water Conditions: Otocinclus are very sensitive to poor water quality. Ensure regular water changes and maintain a clean environment with stable parameters.

Feeding Habits

  • Diet: Otocinclus Catfish are herbivorous and primarily consume algae. In a well-established tank with sufficient algae growth, they can often sustain themselves without additional feeding.
  • Supplemental Feeding: If algae are insufficient, supplement their diet with high-quality algae wafers, blanched vegetables such as zucchini and cucumber, and occasionally spirulina tablets. Feed small amounts that can be consumed within a few hours.

Behavior

  • Activity: Otocinclus are active during the day and are constantly grazing on algae and biofilm. They are peaceful and non-aggressive.
  • Social Structure: They are social fish and should be kept in groups of at least 5-6 to ensure they feel secure and exhibit natural behaviors.
  • Breeding: Breeding Otocinclus in home aquariums is rare but can occur in optimal conditions. They lay eggs on flat surfaces such as leaves and glass.

Tank Mates

  • Compatibility: Otocinclus are compatible with other peaceful, small fish and invertebrates. Suitable tank mates include tetras, rasboras, shrimp, and other small, non-aggressive fish.
  • Avoid: Avoid keeping them with large or aggressive fish that may harm them.

Additional Tips

  • Algae Availability: Ensure there is enough algae for them to graze on. In newly set up tanks, they might require more supplemental feeding until algae develop.
  • Hiding Spots: Provide plenty of plants and hiding places to make them feel secure and reduce stress.
  • Observation: Regularly check for signs of malnutrition or stress, such as decreased activity or visible weight loss.

Including Otocinclus Catfish in your aquarium helps maintain algae control and contributes to a cleaner, healthier tank environment, while adding gentle, continuous activity to the bottom and mid-layers of your aquascape.

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