Can Otocinclus Catfish Live With Blue Dream Shrimp?
Otocinclus Catfish and Blue Dream Shrimp are compatible. Temperature overlap 72–79°F. Both peaceful.
Conditions: Minimum 20 gallon tank.
Parameter Comparison
| Parameter | Otocinclus Catfish | Blue Dream Shrimp | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 72–79°F | 65–80°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 | 5 gal | 20 gal minimum together |
| Diet | Herbivore | Omnivore | — |
| Care Level | intermediate | beginner | — |
Tank Requirements for Otocinclus Catfish + Blue Dream Shrimp
To keep Otocinclus Catfish and Blue Dream Shrimp together, you need at minimum a 20 gallon tank. Otocinclus Catfish should be kept in a school of 6+. Blue Dream 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 →Blue Dream Shrimp
Neocaridina davidi var. Blue Dream
The Blue Dream Shrimp (Neocaridina davidi var. Blue Dream) is a beginner-level freshwater invertebrate growing to 1.5 inches. Peaceful temperament, minimum 5 gallon tank.
Full care guide →