Otocinclus

[jabbott]

I'm considering Otocinclus for my 25 gallon tank. Is one or two OK or do they need to be in a larger group?

I'll probably get them at PetSmart or DNA unless someone has another recommendation that isn't too far of a drive. I don't recall ever seeing them at FG or JFP.

[AndrewH]

I have two in my 33 gallon and they do fine (and no algae anywhere).

I'd say start with 2 and add to that if you need :D.

[dcacjc]

I have 5 in my heavily planted 30g cube, it is fun to watch then "play".

[Haiven]

I would get at least three because they're happier in groups and interact. PetSmart has the best prices on them.

[Lakea]

I love my otos, I have three in my 6.6g with my betta, the betta loves to hang out with them. I think two will be fine, but I would recommend 3 or 4, much more interesting in groups.

[AndrewH]

Sounds like I don't have enough because they certainly are some cool little fish (very fun to watch - very fast) :D.

[jabbott]

Yeah, sounds like 2 would be OK but 3 or more would be better. I had a couple at one point but the tank was too new and the little guys didn't make it (not enough algae and they didn't go for wafers or veggies).

Now I've got an established tank with a number of plants and a big piece of Mopani driftwood, so I think the otos will be more comfortable.

Thanks for all the responses.

[Lakea]

Yeah sometimes otos can be a little hard to keep, but usually if they can make it through the first week they'll do fine. Good luck with your new additions!

[bra8ndy8]

x2......I have got some bad ones I usually grab 6 and have about 3 make it!

[jabbott]

Picked up 3 at PetSmart for $1.99 each. They're making themselves at home, scooting around the plants, glass, and driftwood. The GBRs are moving from oto to oto, staring at them like they want to know who let in the riff raff.

[Adroit]

Good luck with your otos! Sometimes you get some pretty fickle one from Petsmart,that haven't been fed, and they usually die from the stress of getting transported between tanks, but if yours has a nice fat stomach then its been taken care of nicely.

[AndrewH]

They're making themselves at home, scooting around the plants, glass, and driftwood.

Yeah, they're spastic little boogers. Fast as lightning and seems like they should be in rehab before joining my peaceful community :D, but very fun to watch instead of the slow lumbering along other fish ;)