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Synonyms | None |
Distribution | Peru |
Maximum Size | 4.5cm (1.8") |
Temperature | 22-25°C |
Water Parameters | Soft & slightly acidic, pH: 6.0-7.2, dH: up to 12 degrees. |
Compatibility | Community |
Lighting | No special requirements. |
Sexual Dimorphism | Can be difficult to sex a fish so small; mature males have pointed genital papillae and female fish often appear stockier. |
Feeding | Algae wafers, catfish pellets, granules, flake and frozen foods |
The Zebra Otocinclus is a beautiful miniature Loricariid that is an ideal species for a quiet softwater planted aquarium. In the wild it is found amongst dense vegetation at the margins of clearwater creeks.
This is a peaceful fish that is best kept ingood sized groups (6+) in a mature aquarium with plenty of shady hiding spots amongst plants, driftwood, and slate caves. Tankmates should be of similar size and temperament e.g. some of the smaller tetra and Corydoras species, or dwarf cichlids (Apistogramma, Mikrogeophagus etc.). Avoid tankmates that are boisterous at feeding times, as these shy little catfish will not compete well. As with other Otocinclus, this species can be rather delicate when first imported - always ensure new arrivals are well rested, and quarantine any new purchases to ensure they settle in well before adding to the main aquarium.
Omnivorous. Offer a varied diet consisting of sinking catfish pellets, algae wafers, and frozen foods such as bloodworm, daphnia, cyclops etc. Offer vegetable matter such as slices of cucumber or courgette on a regular basis.
A handful of aquarists claim to have bred this egglaying species, but details are few and far between. Very soft and slightly acidic water seems to be essential. The fish apparently clean the spawning site/s together (often the underside of leaves or the aquarium glass) and spawn in a T position similar to that of Corydoras. The fry are tiny and feeding presents quite a challenge.
For delivery before Christmas, orders must be placed on or before 3pm on Wednesday 20th December. We cannot guarantee delivery of these orders pre-Christmas as we are reliant on our couriers, but will use our best endeavours to get orders placed on this date out to you before Christmas. For full details of our festive delivery and opening times click here
Please note: online orders placed after 3pm on Friday 22nd December will not be dispatched until the New Year. For full details of our festive delivery and opening times click here