Zebra Otocinclus care guide
Zebra Otocinclus (Otocinclus cocama) — minimum tank 40 L, temperature 22-26 °C, pH 6-7.5.
Compiled by Aquairi from published sources · Published · Updated
Overview
The Zebra Otocinclus (Otocinclus cocama) is a small loricariid catfish from the upper Amazon basin in Peru, recognised by striking thick black-and-white horizontal bands. It retains the gentle algae-grazing habits of other Otocinclus species.
Taxonomy
- Family: Loricariidae
- Genus: Otocinclus
- Scientific name: Otocinclus cocama
- Common synonyms: Zebra Oto
Habitat
Native to small, slow-moving tributaries of the upper Amazon and Ucayali river systems in Peru, in soft, slightly acidic water with abundant biofilm-covered surfaces.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 40 L (10.6 US gal)
- Adult size: 3-4.5 cm
- Temperature: 22-26 °C (72-79 °F)
- pH: 6-7.5
- GH: 2-10 °dGH
- Water flow: moderate
- Lifespan: 3-5 years
- School size: ≥6 individuals
Diet
A grazing herbivore. Provide a mature aquarium with abundant biofilm and soft algae; supplement with algae wafers, blanched zucchini, cucumber and spinach. Animal protein should be offered only occasionally.
Compatibility
A peaceful shoaling catfish. Keep a group of at least six in a well-established planted aquarium with stable water parameters. Compatible with peaceful nano fish (Boraras, Ember Tetra, Neon Tetra) and freshwater shrimp.
Breeding
Captive breeding is uncommon. Spawning has been induced by cool soft water changes; eggs are attached to leaves and tank glass.
Zebra Otocinclus Breeding Guide
Overview
The zebra otocinclus (Otocinclus cocama) is a small loricariid catfish from the lower Ucayali and Marañón river systems of Peru, reaching only 40-45 mm standard length. It is an algae grazer that has spawned in aquaria, though it is regarded as a challenging fish to breed.
Sexing
Males are roughly 5-10 mm smaller than females and possess a conical urogenital papilla behind the anus, which is absent in females. Males also bear a small flap on the dorsal surface of the pectoral fin.
Spawning Behavior & Egg & Fry Care
Seriously Fish notes only that spawning has been achieved but that very few details are available. The fry are presumed to be very tiny and to require access to copious amounts of algae and other green matter once free-swimming. Because of the limited documentation, no reliable account exists of clutch size, egg-deposition site or precise spawning triggers for this species.
Common Challenges
Imported specimens are delicate and should be quarantined and settled in a mature, established tank that provides biofilm and algae for grazing before any breeding attempt. Stable, soft to moderately hard water (21-25 °C, pH 6.0-7.5) and a well-fed conditioned group give the best chance of success.