Can Otocinclus Catfish Live With Assassin Snail?
Otocinclus Catfish and Assassin Snail are compatible. Temperature overlap 72–79°F. Both peaceful.
Conditions: Minimum 10 gallon tank.
Parameter Comparison
| Parameter | Otocinclus Catfish | Assassin Snail | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 72–79°F | 70–80°F | 72–79°F ✓ |
| pH Range | 6–7.5 | 6.5–8 | 6.5–7.5 ✓ |
| Temperament | peaceful | peaceful | Both peaceful ✓ |
| Max Size | 2" | 1.5" | Similar ✓ |
| Min Tank Size | 10 gal | 10 gal | 10 gal minimum together |
| Diet | Herbivore | Carnivore | — |
| Care Level | intermediate | beginner | — |
Tank Requirements for Otocinclus Catfish + Assassin Snail
To keep Otocinclus Catfish and Assassin Snail 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
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 →Assassin Snail
Clea helena
Assassin snails are the natural pest snail control solution. They hunt and eat bladder snails, pond snails, Malaysian trumpet snails, and ramshorn snails. They breed slowly (unlike pest snails), have attractive yellow and dark brown striped shells, and are safe with fish and shrimp.
Full care guide →