Can Mystery Snail Live With Otocinclus Catfish?
Mystery Snail and Otocinclus Catfish are compatible. Temperature overlap 72–79°F. Both peaceful.
Conditions: Minimum 10 gallon tank.
Parameter Comparison
| Parameter | Mystery Snail | Otocinclus Catfish | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 68–82°F | 72–79°F | 72–79°F ✓ |
| pH Range | 7–8 | 6–7.5 | 7–7.5 ✓ |
| Temperament | peaceful | peaceful | Both peaceful ✓ |
| Max Size | 2" | 2" | Similar ✓ |
| Min Tank Size | 5 gal | 10 gal | 10 gal minimum together |
| Diet | Omnivore | Herbivore | — |
| Care Level | beginner | intermediate | — |
Tank Requirements for Mystery Snail + Otocinclus Catfish
To keep Mystery Snail and Otocinclus Catfish together, you need at minimum a 10 gallon tank. Otocinclus Catfish should be kept in a school of 6+. Provide adequate filtration, stable temperature with a heater, and hiding spots to reduce stress.
Species Profiles
Mystery Snail
Pomacea bridgesii
Mystery snails are popular aquarium snails known for their vibrant colors (gold, ivory, blue, purple, black), algae-eating ability, and entertaining personality. Unlike pest snails, they won't overrun your tank as they lay visible egg clutches above the waterline that are easy to control. They're peaceful, hardy, and safe for planted tanks.
Full care guide →Otocinclus Catfish
Otocinclus spp.
Otocinclus catfish (otos) are tiny, peaceful algae eaters that are incredibly effective at controlling soft green algae and diatoms in planted tanks. They are the gold standard for planted tank algae control, often preferred over larger plecos. However, they are somewhat delicate and require established, well-maintained aquariums.
Full care guide →