Otocinclus Catfish Profile
Common name(s): Otocinclus Catfish, Oto, Otto, Dwarf Armored Catfish, and Dwarf Sucker Catfish
Scientific name(s): Otocinclus vestitus, Otocinclus vittatus, Otocinclus macrospilus, Otocinclus affinis, Otocinclus sp.
Family: Loricariidae
Habitat: South America
Diet: Mainly plant and algae matter
Lifespan: 2-5 years
Temperament: Peaceful, but shy. Prefers a few companions
Size: 2-3"
Tank size: 10 gallons minimum for a small group of them.
Temperature: 68-78F
pH: Adaptable (5.4-7.5)
Hardness: Adaptable, prefers softer water
Water region: Bottom of tank and walls
Activity time: Diurnal
Variations: Different Otocinclus species
Sexing: Males are generally smaller.
Breeding: Start with a group of at least six individuals and feed high-quality foods. Make sure the tank has lots of hiding spots and plants. After spawning, remove eggs or fish, because they will eat the eggs.
Comments: Many different species. All move in wiggly, side-to-side, motions. Keep in a well-established tank.