Otocinclus
Quick Stats
| Size | 1.5" (4cm) |
|---|---|
| Tank | 20 litres + |
| Swimming Area | Bottom, middle and all surfaces of the tank and decor. |
| Ph | 5.2 to 7.5 |
| Temperature | 68ºF to 82ºF (20-28°C) |
| Food | Algae, veggies and sinking tablet foods |
Common Name:
Otocinclus Arnoldi, Oto, Suckerfish.
Distribution:
South America, Brazil, Amazon river basin.
Colouration:
Not one of the most eye catching fish the otos most distinct feature is the brown stripe running down the sides. The main body color is a dull gray green color. Some species the body is more yellow and is often called the golden oto. The belly is white with a hint of yellow. The back is dark.
Lifespan:
5 years +
Maintenance:
10 to 20% weekly water changes. The oto can be difficult to acclimate to the home aquarium, but provided the water conditions are correct and there is some green food they should be OK. Provide good water circulation and filtering. Best keep in groups the actual number will vary upon tank size. Fine with most fish except the larger predatory species.
Feeding:
Algae.While they will take flake food and sinking pellets the natural greens are needed to provide proper health. If no algae is available they will eat the softer bodied plants.
Substrate:
Sand or gravel Its best to have a few rocks in the tank to allow algae to grow.
Tank Decor:
Densely planted with live plants or an established algae growth is essential. Hiding places should also be provided.
Filtration:
Provide good water circulation and filtering.
Biotype:
Heavily vegetated rivers of Brazil and the Amazon watershed.
Breeding:
It would have to be classified as difficult. They have been bred in captivity but it seems to be a sporadic occurrence. Similar to the armored catfish the eggs are laid on the leaves of plants or on the tank glass. No care is given once they are laid. The eggs hatch in about two days and three days later the fry are free swimming. Extremely small and delicate they must be fed newly hatched brine shrimp, crushed vegetable flake food and even boiled spinach.