Can Otocinclus Catfish Live With Bamboo Shrimp?
Otocinclus Catfish and Bamboo Shrimp are compatible. Temperature overlap 74–79°F. Both peaceful.
Conditions: Minimum 20 gallon tank.
Parameter Comparison
| Parameter | Otocinclus Catfish | Bamboo Shrimp | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 72–79°F | 74–82°F | 74–79°F ✓ |
| pH Range | 6–7.5 | 6.5–7.5 | 6.5–7.5 ✓ |
| Temperament | peaceful | peaceful | Both peaceful ✓ |
| Max Size | 2" | 3" | Similar ✓ |
| Min Tank Size | 10 gal | 20 gal | 20 gal minimum together |
| Diet | Herbivore | Filter feeder | — |
| Care Level | intermediate | intermediate | — |
Tank Requirements for Otocinclus Catfish + Bamboo Shrimp
To keep Otocinclus Catfish and Bamboo Shrimp together, you need at minimum a 20 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 →Bamboo Shrimp
Atyopsis moluccensis
The Bamboo Shrimp (Atyopsis moluccensis) is a intermediate-level freshwater invertebrate growing to 3 inches. Peaceful temperament, minimum 20 gallon tank.
Full care guide →