TankFish · moderate
Otocinclus
Otocinclus affinis
- Care level
- moderate
- Temperament
- peaceful
- Diet
- Herbivore/algae grazer — biofilm, algae, blanched vegetables, algae wafers
- Minimum tank size
- 10 gallon
- Adult size
- 1.5 in
- Lifespan
- 3-5 years
- Schooling minimum
- 6+
- Temperature
- 72-79°F
- pH
- 6.0-7.5
- Hardness
- Soft to moderate
Example species record for template validation — pending Phase 1 scientific-source citation before publication.
Compatible tankmates
Compatible
Betta
Otocinclus are too fast and unassuming to trigger most bettas' aggression — one of the safer betta tankmates.
CompatibleCorydoras (Panda Cory)
Both peaceful bottom-oriented species with different diets (Corydoras forage substrate, Otocinclus graze algae on surfaces) so they don't compete for food.
CompatibleHarlequin Rasbora
No overlap in swim zone or diet — a low-risk community pairing.
CompatibleGuppy
Different diets and swim zones mean no competition — a common addition to a planted community tank.