Hoppe's Otocinclus (Otocinclus hoppei) Care Guide
Otocinclus hoppei is a tiny dwarf suckermouth catfish from the Amazon basin, a peaceful shoaling algae grazer for mature, planted aquaria.
Overview
Otocinclus hoppei is a dwarf suckermouth catfish of the family Loricariidae (subfamily Hypoptopomatinae). It is one of the smaller otos; FishBase lists a maximum standard length of about 3.3 cm.
Taxonomy
- Family: Loricariidae
- Scientific name: Otocinclus hoppei
- Subfamily: Hypoptopomatinae
- Common synonyms: Hoppe Oto
Habitat
FishBase records the species from the Amazon river basin. Otos are diurnal shoalers of small streams and well-oxygenated river margins, clinging to wood, stones and broad-leaved plants to graze the surface film, and possess an air-breathing adaptation.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 60 L (16 gal)
- Adult size: 3-4 cm (1.2-1.6 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 part of the diet.
Compatibility
A peaceful, retiring species easily outcompeted for food, it requires 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).