What’s wrong with my Oto?

[lilsd]

First time keeping Otos. I was on the fence about getting them because of the ethical issues with them being wild caught and treated horrible in transport. But I couldn’t find another tiny nano catfish that’s as good at algae control, so I went for it. I regret that choice and won’t be buying any more in the future. Out of the 4 I bought, 1 of them died immediately the first time I did a small water change. The other 3 are still alive but they are extremely skittish whenever I do anything at all as far as tank maintenance.

I noticed this one today with a white blotch on his head. Is this some kind of disease? Or maybe an injury from bashing into something in a panic? Poor things. They’re eating well but they seem stressed. I wish I hadn’t bought them….

Right now they’re sharing the tank with 2 Amano shrimp and a bunch of small snails. I was planning to add either a betta or a small group of CPDs in the near future.

 

[Innesfan]

It could be any of several things--an injury or something opportunistic. Could you provide some more info? What size tank, what's the temperature, what are the water parameters, and what is your water change regimen?

To my knowledge, virtually all Otocinclus are wild caught. Many of us prefer wild caught in whatever species we're interested in. The difference in terms of stress for the fish between being shipped from the wild or from an Asian fish farm is minimal if non-existent. And wild fish won't be bringing in incurable viruses that are spreading among many species being farmed in Asia. Don't throw the baby out with the bathwater. Just find a more reliable supplier. There are many excellent ones.