Replacing corydoras with otocinclus

[SeaSiren]

Thinking about swapping my Corydoras for Otocinclus in my 20-gallon planted tank. The Corys are doing fine, but I want something smaller. Anyone made this switch before? How'd it go?

[bronzeo]

Otos are chill, but they're way more sensitive than Corys. You gotta have a mature tank with plenty of algae or they'll starve. What's your setup like? Got any driftwood or plants for biofilm?

[kalemo]

I agree with bronzeo. Otos need a stable environment. If your tank is less than 6 months old, I'd wait. They're not as hardy as Corys.

[tiderun]

Otos are chill, but they're way more sensitive than Corys. You gotta have a mature tank with plenty of algae or they'll starve. What's your setup like? Got any driftwood or plants for biofilm?

Yep, Otos can be picky eaters. Mine wouldn't touch wafers at first. Had to train them with blanched zucchini.

[Marino88]

I've kept both. Corys are more active, Otos are more shy. If you're cool with that, go for it. Just make sure your water params are solid, 0 ammonia, 0 nitrite, under 20 nitrate.

[luminnox]

Otos are cute but kinda boring. They just stick to the glass all day. Corys at least dig around and have personality.

[lyaka]

Otos are great for algae control, but they're not a replacement for Corys. They fill different niches. If you want both, a 20-gallon could handle a small group of each.

[noeken]

Otos are cute but kinda boring. They just stick to the glass all day. Corys at least dig around and have personality.

True, but Otos have their own charm. Watching them clean the glass is oddly satisfying. Just gotta appreciate the little things.

[SeaSiren]

Thanks for the input, everyone. I'll probably stick with my Corys for now and maybe add Otos later if the tank matures more.

[bronzeo]

Solid plan. Corys are tough to beat. If you do add Otos later, start with a small group and keep an eye on their eating habits.