Can Otocinclus Catfish Live With Amano Shrimp?
Otocinclus Catfish and Amano Shrimp are compatible. Temperature overlap 72–79°F. Both peaceful.
Conditions: Minimum 20 gallon tank.
Parameter Comparison
| Parameter | Otocinclus Catfish | Amano Shrimp | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 72–79°F | 70–80°F | 72–79°F ✓ |
| pH Range | 6–7.5 | 6.5–7.5 | 6.5–7.5 ✓ |
| Temperament | peaceful | peaceful | Both peaceful ✓ |
| Max Size | 2" | 2" | Similar ✓ |
| Min Tank Size | 10 gal | 10 gal | 20 gal minimum together |
| Diet | Herbivore | Omnivore/Detritivore | — |
| Care Level | intermediate | beginner | — |
Tank Requirements for Otocinclus Catfish + Amano Shrimp
To keep Otocinclus Catfish and Amano Shrimp together, you need at minimum a 20 gallon tank. Otocinclus Catfish should be kept in a school of 6+. Amano Shrimp should be kept in a school of 5+. Provide adequate filtration, stable temperature with a heater, and hiding spots to reduce stress.
Species Profiles
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 →Amano Shrimp
Caridina multidentata
Amano shrimp, named after legendary aquascaper Takashi Amano, are the best algae-eating shrimp available. They are larger than cherry shrimp and voraciously consume hair algae, soft green algae, and leftover food. They do not breed in freshwater.
Full care guide →