Golden otocinclus
Otocinclus affinis
FishFreshwater
- Care level
- Moderate
- Temperament
- Peaceful
- Recommended tank
- 60 L
- Maximum size
- 3.5 cm
- Temperature
- 22–26 °C
- pH
- 6–7.5
- Group size
- ≥ 6
- Diet
- Herbivore
Care at a glance
The golden otocinclus is a tiny suckermouth catfish from coastal streams in southern Brazil that grazes leaves and glass all day. Several near-identical otocinclus species arrive under this trade name; they all need the same care.
It does not eat hair algae but the soft brown film and biofilm, so never add it to a freshly started tank: there is simply nothing to graze. Supplementary blanched courgette or a vegetable wafer is nearly always needed, and keep it in a small group, as single fish become restless.
Good to know
Related species
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Values are mainstream hobbyist guidance, not gospel — always watch what your own animals need.