An Happy A Otto Ok By It's Self?

[Fishkeeper4567]

Hello. A long time back I had a big algae problem. Due to the ceramic media I could not have bottom feeders due to it cutting their mouths. I did some research and found out ottos might be an idea. My tank is covered with pebbles on top of the media. Anyway, got some knowing the risks. They cleaned the tank with in a couple of days but after that two sadly died. However, one lived on and is now about four months old. It is really adapted and doing well. The question is do I need to purchase more due to ottos liking groups? He seems pretty happy and I don't need any more. I'm also worried about losing them if I do. Will, it be all right on it's own? Thanks.

 

[snowflake311]

I have 2 otos they are often found together but not always. He would enjoy a friend I would try to get one more. Make sure you get them to eat something if the tank is out of algae. Green Veggies work good. If the bellies look round they are getting enough if they don't have round bellies you need to feed them.

 

[Fishkeeper4567]

Yes I do feed him cucumber and wafers. He seems very happy still. When I had the three he seemed to keep single of the others the other two swam around with each other. Maybe he's a solitary otto? Thanks.

 

[This Old Spouse]

I got 3 ottos for my 55g and they disappeared within two days. No sign of them anywhere.

 

[StandbySetting]

Not an easy fish to keep, fresh algae is a must, they will simply not survive without it in most cases, as long as your tank can keep up with the demands they should be ok to add.

 

[Fishkeeper4567]

Yeah. The two I lost disappeared without trace. Couldn't find the bodies anywhere.

 

[This Old Spouse]

Yeah. The two I lost disappeared without trace. Couldn't find the bodies anywhere.

Same as mine! How the heck does that happen???

 

[Fishkeeper4567]

Well, I think he's happy by himself at the moment. No algae in the tank so not good to add more as well. I know it's not on subject but biorb are finally going to release rectangle aquariums called biorb flow. The first one 15litres I won't get but if they make more with a bigger capacity I definitely will purchase.

 

[Caprichoso]

Otocinclus prefer pH of 7.0 but will happily live in a range of temp and pH as long as the water is kept very clean. They also need to be in groups which makes them feel more secure. They won't necessarily sit together all the time but you will see small groups of them branching off and hanging out together. They really should be in groups of 4 at the very least. If you have a tank without algae, you may need to supplement their diet with algae wafer/blanched veggie, etc.

 

[Fishkeeper4567]

Thanks.