Dwarf otocinclus - Otocinclus affinis

Scientific name: Otocinclus affinis

Common name: Dwarf otocinclus

Family: Loricariidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 4 - 5 cm (1.57 - 1.97 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 6 - 7.5

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 4 - 18°N (71.43 - 321.43ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 20 - 28 °C (68 - 82.4°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: South America

Temperament to its own species: peaceful

Temperament toward other fish species: peaceful

Usual place in the tank: Bottom levels

Origin

The Dwarf Otocinclus (Otocinclus affinis) originates from the Amazonian waterways, thriving in highly vegetated areas. They are most commonly found in Peru and Brazil, where the abundance of plants provides them with ample grazing surfaces and hiding spots. In their natural habitat, they help control algae growth, making them a valuable addition to planted aquariums.

Tank Requirements

Dwarf Otocinclus are delicate and sensitive fish that require a mature aquarium for long-term survival. They should never be added to a newly set up tank; instead, the tank should be well-established and have been running for several months. The ideal tank size should be at least 40 liters (10.57 gallons) to accommodate a small group, as they are social creatures and thrive when kept in groups of at least 5.

The tank should include plenty of live plants such as Amazon Sword, Java Moss, or Anubias, providing natural grazing areas and hiding spots. The substrate should be smooth and soft, like fine sand or rounded gravel, to protect their delicate barbels. Water parameters should be kept within a pH range of 6.0-7.5 and a hardness of 4-18°N (71.43-321.43 ppm). They prefer temperatures ranging from 20-28°C (68-82.4°F).

Maintaining high water quality is crucial for their health, so use an adequate filtration system and perform weekly water changes of at least 10%. They are very peaceful fish and should be housed with similarly peaceful species, such as tetras, rasboras, and Corydoras.

Tank Mates

Dwarf Otocinclus are peaceful and non-aggressive, making them ideal for community tanks. They do best when kept with small, calm species like Neon Tetras, Ember Tetras, Harlequin Rasboras, and Corydoras Catfish. Other suitable tankmates include Cherry Barbs, Guppies, Zebra Danios, and Endler's guppy. Avoid adding large, aggressive fish to the tank, as they can easily outcompete the Otocinclus for food and cause unnecessary stress.

Feeding

Dwarf Otocinclus are primarily herbivores, relying on a high-vegetable diet. In the aquarium, they will graze on algae growing on plant leaves, rocks, and the tank walls. However, since algae may not always be sufficient, supplement their diet with high-quality algae wafers, spirulina flakes, and blanched vegetables like zucchini, cucumber, and peas. Ensure to remove any uneaten food after an hour to maintain water quality.

Feed them small amounts daily to keep them in optimal health. Avoid overfeeding, as excess food can lead to poor water conditions and health issues.

Sexing

Mature females tend to be larger and have a rounder, stockier body shape compared to the more slender males. This difference is most noticeable when viewed from above, especially during the breeding season when females may swell with eggs.

Breeding

Breeding Dwarf Otocinclus in captivity can be challenging and is not recommended for novice breeders. They are egg scatterers and will deposit their eggs on plant leaves or the aquarium glass. Cool water changes may encourage spawning, although success can be somewhat unpredictable.

After spawning, it is best to remove the parent fish as they do not exhibit parental care and may consume the eggs. The eggs typically hatch within 24 hours, and once the fry become free-swimming, they can be fed on newly hatched brine shrimp or crushed spirulina flakes. Raising the fry can be tricky due to their small size and sensitivity to water quality, so regular water changes and careful monitoring are essential.

Lifespan

If cared for correctly, the average lifespan of the Dwarf Otocinclus is 4-5 years. Providing them with a stable environment, a balanced diet, and regular maintenance is key to ensuring they live a healthy, long life.

Short Description

Dwarf Otocinclus are popular among aquarists for their algae-eating abilities and peaceful nature. However, they are delicate fish that require a mature, well-maintained tank to thrive. These fish are best suited for experienced aquarists who can provide them with stable water conditions and a varied, vegetable-rich diet. Their small size and peaceful temperament make them ideal companions for other small, calm fish species in a planted community tank.

Thanks to halkor who has allowed us to use his picture.