Otocinclus, or more commonly referred to as Oto Catfish are great additions to any freshwater tank. They are generally thought of to be a better option than that of the, also common tank cleaner, the Chinese Algae Eater.
Oto Catfish are great in smaller tanks since they only reach a max size of 3 inches. They are also great with just about any tank mate and are very peaceful.
Most importantly, the Oto Catfish does an outstanding job of keeping your tank clean and clear of algae. And, unlike some of the other tank cleaner options, the Oto will continue to feast on algae well into adulthood.
Oto Catfish Quick Facts
| Scientific Name: | Otocinclus |
| Common Names: | Oto, Oto Catfish, Otocinclus and Dwarf Sucker |
| Diet: | Herbivorous |
| Salinity: | Freshwater |
| Tank Size: | 10 Gallon Minimum |
| pH: | 6.8 – 7.5 |
| Behavior: | Peaceful |
| Max Size: | 3 Inches |
| Lifespan: | 3 Years |
| Temperature: | 75 to 80 ℉ |
| Origin: | South American |
Oto Catfish Origins
Oto Catfish, Otocinculos, Dwarf Suckers, or Otos are native to South America. They can be found in both Venezuela and Argentina.
Otos like to spend their time in shallow waters enjoying the vegetation. They are, however, perfectly capable of venturing deeper. Oto Catfish can use their “sucker” to hang onto flat rocks or plants in currents.
Most unique is that the Oto is capable of breathing oxygen right from the air and can be seen taking in air at the surface of your tank.
The Perfect Oto Catfish Tank Setup
- 10 Gallon minimum. Does well in groups of other Otos but should be moved into a larger tank when housed in schools.
- Prefers a mature and planted tank with plenty to graze on.
- 75-80 ° F. Heat as necessary.
- Prefers to be in a school. Also does well with most other peaceful fish.
- Proper filtration required.
- Flat rock, stones, or pebbles are an ideal substrate.
- Aeration may be needed if you notice you Oto Catfish breathing from the surface.
Oto Catfish Diet
Oto Catfish are herbivores. A matured tank should provide enough algae for a juvenile. Make sure to supplement with algae wafers as needed.
Other ways that you can supplement your Otos diet if with fresh green vegetables. Spinach or lettuce are great choices, just be sure to boil or steam them first to soften them up.
Feed your fish twice a day, if needed. Remember to remove leftover algae wafers or fresh greens to keep you water clean.
Compatibility
Oto Catfish are a very peaceful species so you are unlikely to have any issues with its behavior. They love to be in schools of other Otos of 6 or more and also do well with other algae eaters such as the Corydoras.
Any peaceful fish will make a good tank mate. The only concerns would be with very large fish that can fit the Oto in its mouth or with large aggressive fish. Some fish to avoid are Jack Dempseys, Oscars, Goldfish, Convicts, and Crayfish (freshwater lobster).
