Flexilis Otocinclus (Otocinclus flexilis) Care Guide
Otocinclus flexilis is among the largest dwarf suckermouth catfishes, from southern Brazil and the Laguna dos Patos drainage, a peaceful shoaling algae grazer.
Overview
Otocinclus flexilis is a dwarf suckermouth catfish of the family Loricariidae (subfamily Hypoptopomatinae). It is among the largest species of the genus, with FishBase recording a maximum total length of about 6.8 cm.
Taxonomy
- Family: Loricariidae
- Scientific name: Otocinclus flexilis
- Subfamily: Hypoptopomatinae
- Common synonyms: Flexilis Oto
Habitat
FishBase records the species from the Laguna dos Patos drainage of southern Brazil, with a wider range across southern Brazil and Uruguay. Otos are diurnal shoalers of small streams and well-oxygenated river margins, grazing the film on wood, stones and broad-leaved plants, and possess an air-breathing adaptation.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 60 L (16 gal)
- Adult size: 4-5 cm (1.6-2.0 in)
- Temperature: 24-28 °C (75-82 °F)
- pH: 6-7.5
- GH: 2-12 °dGH
- Group size: ≥6 individuals
- Lifespan: 8-12 years
Diet
The diet is algae-based, dominated by diatoms and aufwuchs. The fish does best in a mature, planted aquarium with a steady supply of soft green algae and biofilm, supplemented by blanched vegetables and algae wafers. Animal foods are a minor component.
Compatibility
A peaceful species that is easily outcompeted for food, it needs calm tankmates. It is a social shoaler best kept in groups of at least six and is plant-safe, suiting communities of small tetras and Corydoras.
Breeding
In keeping with the genus, it lays adhesive eggs that are not guarded, depositing them on plants and aquarium surfaces.
Conservation status
The IUCN Red List assessed the species as Least Concern (2018).