Description

Otocinclus – Otocinclus affinis

Otocinclus or “Otos” are one of the smallest species of suckermouth catfish. They are a true algae eater and far more likely to keep the aquarium under control than Ancistrus and Plecos will. They are a very peaceful shoaling species and should be kept in a group of 6 or more individuals only in mature aquaria with plenty of algae and biofilm. This is a very delicate species and needs to be acclimatised carefully and monitored, so it isn’t beginner friendly or suitable for new tanks. Regular water changes are essential as this fish is very sensitive to deteriorating water conditions.

Otos should not be expected to survive solely on the algae growth in the aquarium. Food should be offered in the form of algae wafers, sinking wafers and flakes.  Due to their small size and peaceful temperament, Otocinclus are a great choice for smaller aquariums.

Ideal tank mates can be anything peaceful including tetras, rasboras, dwarf cichlids, corydoras and many other species.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are Otos so delicate?

There are a lot of factors to answering this question and we get asked this a lot. One of the most notable factors is that most otos are wild caught. Wild caught fish in general have more difficulty in adjusting to captive life as their natural habitats tend to be very stable and entirely different from commercial tap water. It is also why they are not a great choice for newly established aquariums as the early stages of that ecosystem can be prone to fluctuating parameters, as well as imbalances. Many keepers will also forget that even in an established tank, the otos need a constant food source and will need to be fed if there isn’t sufficient algae in the tank or they will starve.

Can otos be kept with shrimp?

Yes. Otos are a completely peaceful algae grazing species. They can be kept alongside cherry shrimp, amanos and other smaller shrimp species.

Can otos be kept with plants?

Absolutely! Otos are not known for eating plants, but instead prefer to graze on soft algae. You may see your otos rasping on leaves, but they are only eating the algae on the leaves, not the plant itself.

Did you know? Otocinclus are one of the few fish that regularly graze biofilm as well as algae. In healthy mature aquariums, much of their diet comes from the microscopic organisms living on plant leaves, wood and aquarium surfaces.

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