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Replacing corydoras with otocinclus
Posted: Wed Jul 02, 2025 12:41 am
by 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?
Re: Replacing corydoras with otocinclus
Posted: Wed Jul 02, 2025 12:50 am
by 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?
Re: Replacing corydoras with otocinclus
Posted: Wed Jul 02, 2025 1:10 am
by 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.
Re: Replacing corydoras with otocinclus
Posted: Wed Jul 02, 2025 1:39 am
by tiderun
bronzeo wrote: ↑Wed Jul 02, 2025 12:50 am
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.
Re: Replacing corydoras with otocinclus
Posted: Wed Jul 02, 2025 2:12 am
by 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.
Re: Replacing corydoras with otocinclus
Posted: Wed Jul 02, 2025 2:48 am
by luminnox
Otos are cute but kinda boring. They just stick to the glass all day. Corys at least dig around and have personality.
Re: Replacing corydoras with otocinclus
Posted: Wed Jul 02, 2025 2:58 am
by 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.
Re: Replacing corydoras with otocinclus
Posted: Wed Jul 02, 2025 3:43 am
by noeken
luminnox wrote: ↑Wed Jul 02, 2025 2:48 am
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.
Re: Replacing corydoras with otocinclus
Posted: Wed Jul 02, 2025 4:34 am
by 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.
Re: Replacing corydoras with otocinclus
Posted: Wed Jul 02, 2025 5:02 am
by 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.