General information – The Otocinclus is a great addition to a peaceful

planted tank. Otocinclus, like other Loricariids, are characterized by

rows of armour plating covering the body as well as underslung

suckermouth. Otocinclus have adaptations that allow these fish to

breathe air. Otocinclus species are diurnal and generally found in

small streams or along the margins of larger rivers, clinging to

substrates using the mouth as a sucker, and feeding from algae or

on roots, stones, , and broad-leaved grasses. 

Common Name – Otto, Otto cat, Dwarf Sucking Catfish 

Scientific Name - Otocinclus vestitus 

Family - Loricariidae

Photo by: Nisso

Origin - Otocinclus originate from tropical, freshwater rivers in South America 

Size – Up to 5 cm (2 In) 

First discovered - Unknown 

Nutrition – Herbivores, feeding mainly on algae. Driftwood tends to support a healthy growth of algae for

them to browse on.  Catfish wafers are essential for Ottos due to lack of algae. Adding Spinach, Zucchini

or Cucumber to their diet is more then recommended. 

Behavior - Peaceful 

Maintenance and care – Easy to care and keep but needs to be slowly acclimated and you must keep

them in optimum water conditions by performing frequent partial water changes. Otocinclus often die within

the first month of being introduced to the aquarium. Otocinclus are safe for live plant aquariums and are small

enough to clean even the smallest of leaves. Otocinclus are schooling fish in the wild and prefer to be kept

in groups of at least three or more in the aquarium. Cichlid and other big or aggressive fish can't be kept

with the Otto in the same tank. 

Water Parameters – Temperature: 68F -82F (20C-28C), PH: 6 - 7.5, DH: 6-15 

Breeding – The Otto have been bred in captivity but it seems to be a sporadic occurrence. In nature the

Otto starts breeding at the onset of the rainy season. Lowering the water temperature usually triggers c

ourting, as it is a sign to the beginning of the rainy season. Mating occurs as the male swims in front of

the female, clasping her mouth with his Pelvic fins, this is known as the famous "T position.