Otocinclus experts?

[plebian]

I've had a brown algae problem in my aquarium for more than 4 years. I've added plants, removed plants, altered lighting, altered feeding regimen, all to no avail. I have no problem growing plants, but the brown proliferates just as fast if not faster. I've rarely had any problems with other species of algae that weren't minor and temporary, but the brown algae persists.

Ignoring previous bad experiences with Otocinclus, I recently purchased a group of 6 and placed them in my QT, which had green dust algae covering nearly 2 sq ft of glass. Firstly, I wanted to see if they were actually as good at algae removal as has been reported (contrary to reports regarding bristlenose as algae eaters, they are not). Secondly, I wanted to see if they actually survived.

The first question has been answered in spades. In a single week, the Otos had consumed 100% of the algae. The second question remains. One of the 6 Otos died the day after purchase, 5 remain. I'm going to transfer them to my main tank today. My concern is they will not consume brown algae as voraciously as they consumed green algae, which is almost non-existent in my main aquarium. My second concern is their continued survival. In spite of their voracious appetite, to this point they've shown little increase in body mass. They still look as thin as when I bought them. Assuming they continue to eat well, will they survive? Previously, I've never had an Oto survive more than a month.

 

[Back in the fold]

Ramshorn snails and the common pond snail will clean up brown algae like you’d never believe and they do it quick . To the best of my knowledge most Otocinclus are wild caught and are already starving when you buy them at a shop . I think you have to have their needs thought out before you acquire them .

 

[plebian]

Ramshorn snails and the common pond snail will clean up brown algae like you’d never believe and they do it quick . To the best of my knowledge most Otocinclus are wild caught and are already starving when you buy them at a shop . I think you have to have their needs thought out before you acquire them .

Clearly you didn't comprehend the situation as described, nor the questions I posed. I did not ask for algae consuming alternatives, as I have no interest in snails. I asked about Oto survival and whether or not they will consume brown algae as eagerly as they consume green algae.

 

[anewbie]

Is it diatom? That is usually caused by silicate; it normally leaves after a few weeks the fact that it remained for 4 years suggest something is feeding it. Oto don't eat diatom also they eat more biofilm than actual algae so i doubt they ate all your algae

 

[plebian]

Is it diatom? That is usually caused by silicate; it normally leaves after a few weeks the fact that it remained for 4 years suggest something is feeding it. Oto don't eat diatom also they eat more biofilm than actual algae so i doubt they ate all your algae

Unbelievable. I asked for assistance from someone with factual knowledge and/or substantial experience. I stated quite clearly that my Otocinclus had consumed a large quantity of green algae. You're either calling me a liar, or you're simply ignorant. I presume the latter, since it's a quality extremely common on Internet forums.

Not only do my Otocinclus consume green algae, they appear to now be grazing on the brown algae (diatoms) in my main aquarium, though I can't be certain at this point. They are definitely foraging the gravel, the powerheads, and the intake pipes, all of which are partially covered with brown algae. It may be biofilm they're after, the brown algae. Time will certainly tell.

 

[Innesfan]

Whoa! @plebian! Is the snark really necessary?

 

[GaryE]

If we are unable to discuss in a civil and thoughtful manner, then the thread has run its course.
"We expect members to remain courteous towards others." That's a basic rule of the forum.