Otocinclus Care Sheet
Otocinclus spp.
Tiny, peaceful algae-eating catfish that are the best cleanup crew for planted tanks. Otos are gentle, non-destructive algae eaters that won't harm delicate plants.
72–79°F
6–7.5
10 gallons
3–5 years
1.5–2 inches (3.5–5 cm)
6+ (social species — never keep alone)
Difficult in captivity. Rarely breeds in home aquariums. Egg layers that deposit on plant leaves.
Diet & Feeding
Herbivore — primarily grazes on biofilm and soft algae. Supplement with algae wafers, blanched zucchini, and spirulina. Sensitive to starvation.
Natural Habitat
Native to South American rivers, clinging to rocks and plants in flowing, well-oxygenated water.
Care Tips
Only add to mature, well-established tanks with existing algae/biofilm
Highly sensitive to water quality — zero ammonia/nitrite tolerance
Will starve in too-clean tanks — supplement with algae wafers
Keep in groups of 6+ — solitary otos waste away from stress
Best algae eater for planted tanks — won't damage plant leaves