Oto Catfish

[GuppyDude]

I'm in the middle of setting up a 10g for breeding oto catfish. I've read into them quite a bit; but id like to hear of any kind of experience you folks have with them as far as breeding and shoaling are concerned. I understand that they shoal, and are more apt to breed in a sizable group. How many should i start out with?

I'm no where near the fish buying stage yet, started the tank on a fish-less cycle today. I'd also like to get my plants acclimated first, and an abundant supply of algae built up for them to feed on. If theres anything less obvious that i might be missing out on, please tell. My brother had an oto in his 10g for a long time, i had always been fascinated with them.

 

[mcdanielnc89]

Well, I'm absolutely no oto expert by no means but I'd say at least keep them in a group of 4 or more where they feel secure...

And on your algea thing, I have no problems getting algae in my tank, LOL.. Now all I need is some otos. haha...


Good luck

 

[AlexAndCarmen]

You're absolutely right to wait till there is enough algae in the tank before adding any of these sweet little guys. I think that's the problem most people have, that there isn't enough algae and the oto's starve to death. Brown algae is best. I started with a group of 5 and within weeks had them breeding in our community tank. Check the bottom of my post, in my sig and click on my oto breeding diary. I have plenty pics and info there.

Good luck and keep us updated with your tank.

Speak soon
Carmen

 

[GuppyDude]

Yea, my bro had just 1 in a 5g and it ate non-stop. Growing alot of algae shouldn't be a problme though.