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Looking for small bottom feeders for a 20 gallon planted tank. Need something that won't mess with my shrimp but can handle leftover food. Any suggestions?

Pygmy Corydoras are a solid choice. They stay small, around an inch, and are peaceful. I've kept them with shrimp before, no issues. Just make sure you have sand or smooth substrate.

Second the Pygmy Corys. They're chill and do a great job cleaning up. Also, Otocinclus could work if you have algae. Just gotta acclimate them slowly.

I've had good luck with Kuhli Loaches in my 20 gallon. They're fun to watch and won't bother shrimp. Just keep the tank well covered, they're escape artists.

Kuhlis are cool, but they can get a bit bigger than Pygmy Corys. If you want something tiny, try Asian Stone Catfish. They're super low key and stay small.

Thanks for the suggestions, everyone. Gonna look into Pygmy Corys and Asian Stone Catfish. Any tips on feeding them?

guppyroam wrote: ↑Thu Jul 10, 2025 2:21 am Thanks for the suggestions, everyone. Gonna look into Pygmy Corys and Asian Stone Catfish. Any tips on feeding them?

They'll scavenge, but sinking pellets or frozen bloodworms once in a while keep 'em happy.

Yep, Pygmy Corys love sinking pellets. I drop a couple in at night, and they're gone by morning. Just don't overfeed, or you'll mess with your water params.

I've got a group of Pygmy Corys in my 15 gallon. They're always active and don't bother my shrimp. Plus, they're cute as heck.

Ain't nobody mentioned Bristlenose Plecos yet. They're small, but might outgrow a 20 gal. Stick with the Corys or Otos, imo.