Otocinclus for Sale (Otocinclus spp.) – Peaceful Algae-Eating Freshwater Fish

Buy Otocinclus for your aquarium and add one of the best small algae-eating fish for planted tanks and peaceful community setups.

Otocinclus, often called Oto Catfish or Dwarf Suckers, are small, peaceful freshwater fish prized for their algae-grazing ability and calm temperament. These sensitive grazers do best in mature, stable planted aquariums with established biofilm, adequate food, and other gentle tankmates. They are not substitutes for aquarium maintenance.

🔥 Why You’ll Love Otocinclus

• Excellent algae grazers for glass, plants, and décor
• Peaceful and community-friendly
• Perfect for planted aquariums and nano tanks
• Small size makes them easy to keep in groups
• One of the best natural cleanup crew fish

📋 Care Information

• Scientific Name: Otocinclus spp.
• Common Name: Otocinclus, Oto Catfish, Dwarf Sucker
• Care Level: Moderate; needs a mature, stable aquarium and reliable feeding
• Temperament: Peaceful, schooling
• Max Size: approximately 1.5–2 inches
• Tank Size: 20 gallons or larger recommended for a social group with established grazing surfaces
• Diet: Algae, biofilm, sinking wafers, blanched vegetables

💧 Water Parameters

• Temperature: 72–79°F (22–26°C)
• pH: 6.5–7.5
• Hardness: Soft to moderate

🌿 Perfect For

• Planted aquariums and aquascapes
• Nano and community tanks
• Natural algae control
• Peaceful cleanup crew setups

👥 Social Behavior

Otocinclus do best in groups of 6 or more. Keeping them in small schools helps reduce stress and encourages natural behavior.

🐟 Tank Mates

Otocinclus pair well with other peaceful fish such as tetras, rasboras, corydoras, shrimp, and snails. Avoid aggressive or much larger fish.

🌱 Feeding Tips

Otocinclus should not rely on algae alone. Supplement their diet with algae wafers, blanched zucchini, cucumber, and other vegetable-based foods for long-term health.

🔗 Explore More

Looking for more algae eaters? Browse our Best Algae Eaters for Aquariums guide or shop our Freshwater Fish Collection.

🔍 Frequently Asked Questions

Do Otocinclus eat algae?
Yes, Otocinclus are excellent algae grazers and are one of the best fish for controlling soft algae in planted tanks.

How many Otocinclus should I keep together?
They do best in groups of at least 4–6.

Are Otocinclus beginner-friendly?
They can be, but they do best in stable, established aquariums with plenty of biofilm and gentle tank mates.

Can Otocinclus live with shrimp?
They are generally peaceful with adult shrimp, but fry or very small invertebrates are not guaranteed safe with any fish.