Otocinclus (Otocinclus vittatus) Care Guide
Tiny peaceful loricariid catfish from South America, prized as one of the most effective biofilm and soft-algae grazers for planted nano aquariums.
Overview
Otocinclus vittatus is a small suckermouth catfish in the family Loricariidae, subfamily Hypoptopomatinae. Diurnal and gregarious, it spends most of its time grazing biofilm and soft algae from plant leaves, wood and glass.
Taxonomy
- Family: Loricariidae
- Genus: Otocinclus
- Scientific name: Otocinclus vittatus
Habitat
Distributed widely across South America in the Amazon, Orinoco, Parana, Paraguay, Xingu and Tocantins river basins. The species inhabits well-oxygenated, moderately flowing streams, clinging to submerged surfaces with its specialised suckermouth.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 40 L
- Temperature: 21-26 °C
- pH: 6.0-7.5
- GH: 2-15 °dGH
- School size: at least 6 individuals
- Lifespan: 3-5 years
- Adult size: 3-5 cm
Diet
An obligate herbivore feeding on biofilm, diatoms and soft green algae. In a mature, well-established aquarium with sufficient biofilm it can feed itself; supplementary blanched zucchini, cucumber and algae wafers should be offered in cleaner tanks. Otocinclus is sensitive to starvation and should never be added to a brand-new tank without established surfaces.
Compatibility
Very peaceful and easily intimidated. Best housed with small, gentle tankmates such as Neon Tetra, Corydoras, Harlequin Rasbora and Cherry Shrimp. Avoid larger, aggressive or fin-nipping species. Groups of six or more are required for natural behaviour.
Breeding
Breeding in home aquaria is uncommon and considered advanced. Eggs are adhesive and laid on plant leaves and other surfaces; parents do not guard the brood, in contrast to many other loricariids.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern (assessed 2020). The species has a very broad range and stable populations.