Vampire Otocinclus – Nannoptopoma sternoptychum
The Vampire Otocinclus (Nannoptopoma sternoptychum) is a rare and fascinating dwarf sucker catfish closely related to Otocinclus. This peaceful South American loricariid is valued for its small size, gentle temperament, unique appearance, and constant grazing behavior in mature planted aquariums.
Despite the dramatic name, the Vampire Otocinclus is not aggressive or predatory. It spends much of its time grazing on biofilm, soft algae, driftwood, plant leaves, and aquarium surfaces. This species does best in stable, mature aquariums with clean, well-oxygenated water and plenty of natural grazing surfaces.
Key Features
- Rare dwarf sucker catfish related to Otocinclus
- Peaceful algae and biofilm grazer for mature aquariums
- Excellent choice for planted tanks and peaceful community setups
- Compact size makes it suitable for smaller aquariums with stable water
- Safe with peaceful fish, shrimp, and snails
- Best kept in groups for natural behavior and confidence
Care Guide
- Scientific Name: Nannoptopoma sternoptychum
- Common Name: Vampire Otocinclus
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Adult Size: Up to approximately 2 inches
- Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons or larger recommended
- Water Temperature: 75–82°F
- pH Range: 6.0–7.5
- Diet: Herbivore / algae and biofilm grazer
- Origin: South America
Ideal Tank Setup
Vampire Otocinclus should be kept in a mature aquarium with established biofilm, soft algae growth, driftwood, live plants, and stable water parameters. They appreciate clean, oxygen-rich water with gentle to moderate flow.
A planted aquarium with smooth wood, broad-leaf plants, and shaded resting areas is ideal. Avoid adding this species to brand-new aquariums that do not yet have natural grazing surfaces or stable water quality.
Diet & Feeding
Vampire Otocinclus graze naturally throughout the day, but they should not be expected to survive on algae alone. Supplement their diet with spirulina wafers, algae wafers, sinking herbivore foods, blanched zucchini, cucumber, spinach, and other vegetable-based foods.
Because these fish are small and peaceful, make sure food reaches them and is not outcompeted by faster tankmates.
Compatible Tankmates
- Small peaceful tetras
- Rasboras
- Pygmy Corydoras
- Peaceful nano fish
- Shrimp colonies
- Snails
- Small peaceful gouramis
- Other gentle community fish
Care Tips
- Keep in groups of five or more whenever possible
- Provide a mature tank with established biofilm
- Supplement algae grazing with vegetable-based foods
- Maintain clean, stable, well-oxygenated water
- Avoid aggressive or overly boisterous tankmates
- Use driftwood and live plants to provide grazing surfaces and cover
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Vampire Otocinclus the same as regular Otocinclus?
No. Vampire Otocinclus are closely related to Otocinclus, but they are a separate dwarf sucker catfish with their own unique appearance and care needs.
Are Vampire Otocinclus good algae eaters?
Yes. They graze on soft algae and biofilm, but they should also be fed algae wafers, spirulina foods, and blanched vegetables for proper nutrition.
How many Vampire Otocinclus should I keep?
A group of five or more is recommended when possible. They are peaceful social fish and usually feel more secure in groups.
Are Vampire Otocinclus safe with shrimp?
Yes. They are peaceful and generally safe with shrimp, snails, and small community fish.
Do Vampire Otocinclus need driftwood and plants?
Yes. Driftwood and live plants provide grazing surfaces, cover, and a more natural environment.
Can Vampire Otocinclus live in a brand-new aquarium?
They are not ideal for brand-new tanks. A mature, stable aquarium with established biofilm and natural grazing surfaces is strongly recommended.
What should I feed Vampire Otocinclus?
Offer spirulina wafers, algae wafers, sinking herbivore foods, and blanched vegetables such as zucchini or spinach.
Available at Tropical Treasures Wyo
Vampire Otocinclus are a rare and peaceful dwarf sucker catfish for mature planted aquariums, shrimp tanks, and peaceful freshwater community setups. Visit Tropical Treasures Wyo in Cheyenne, Wyoming, or shop online for rare catfish, algae grazers, freshwater fish, shrimp, snails, live plants, and aquarium supplies.
Explore More Aquarium Products:
Out of stock
Couldn't load pickup availability
Explore Related Aquarium Products: