Can Otocinclus Catfish Live With Endler's Livebearer?
Otocinclus Catfish and Endler's Livebearer are compatible. Temperature overlap 72–79°F. Both peaceful.
Conditions: Minimum 20 gallon tank.
Parameter Comparison
| Parameter | Otocinclus Catfish | Endler's Livebearer | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 72–79°F | 72–82°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 | 20 gal minimum together |
| Diet | Herbivore | Omnivore | — |
| Care Level | intermediate | beginner | — |
Tank Requirements for Otocinclus Catfish + Endler's Livebearer
To keep Otocinclus Catfish and Endler's Livebearer together, you need at minimum a 20 gallon tank. Otocinclus Catfish should be kept in a school of 6+. Endler's Livebearer should be kept in a school of 3+. 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 →Endler's Livebearer
Poecilia wingei
Endler's livebearers are close relatives of guppies but stay smaller and display even more intense neon coloration. Males are tiny but spectacularly colored. They breed prolifically and are perfect for nano tanks.
Full care guide →