Otocinclus, also called 'Otos', are small, peaceful algae-eating fish ideal for planted aquariums. They clean soft algae from leaves, glass, and decorations, and are perfect for community tanks.
Out of Stock
Otocinclus, also called 'Otos', are small, peaceful algae-eating fish ideal for planted aquariums. They clean soft algae from leaves, glass, and decorations, and are perfect for community tanks.
Small, slender fish with a brownish-silver body and a dark horizontal stripe. Transparent fins.
3–5 years with proper care
Primarily herbivorous; consume algae, biofilm, and sinking algae wafers. Supplement with blanched vegetables such as zucchini and spinach.
Otos are excellent algae cleaners for peaceful community aquariums, especially planted tanks.
Easy to Moderate – requires stable water conditions and schooling.
10 gallons (larger for groups)
6.5 to 7.5
5–15 dGH
72–79°F
1–2 inches
Tetras, rasboras, danios, small peaceful community fish.
Avoid large, aggressive fish that may stress or eat them.
Otocinclus spp.
Loricariidae
South America – Amazon and Paraná river basins
Schooling; peaceful with most community fish.
Feed algae wafers, blanched vegetables, and occasional protein foods.
pH: 6.5–7.5, Temperature: 72–79°F, Hardness: 5–15 dGH, Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm, Nitrate: <20 ppm
Sensitive to ammonia, nitrites, and sudden water changes. Stress can cause disease.
Peaceful, shy, and schooling fish. Best kept in groups of 6 or more.
Otocinclus are small freshwater algae eaters from South America. They thrive in well-planted, oxygen-rich tanks with stable water conditions. Sensitive to poor water quality, they are ideal for beginner to intermediate aquarists seeking algae control.