Can Otocinclus Catfish Live With Rummy Nose Tetra?
Otocinclus Catfish and Rummy Nose Tetra are compatible. Temperature overlap 75–79°F. Both peaceful.
Conditions: Minimum 20 gallon tank.
Parameter Comparison
| Parameter | Otocinclus Catfish | Rummy Nose Tetra | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 72–79°F | 75–84°F | 75–79°F ✓ |
| pH Range | 6–7.5 | 5.5–7 | 6–7 ✓ |
| Temperament | peaceful | peaceful | Both peaceful ✓ |
| Max Size | 2" | 2.5" | Similar ✓ |
| Min Tank Size | 10 gal | 20 gal | 20 gal minimum together |
| Diet | Herbivore | Omnivore | — |
| Care Level | intermediate | intermediate | — |
Tank Requirements for Otocinclus Catfish + Rummy Nose Tetra
To keep Otocinclus Catfish and Rummy Nose Tetra together, you need at minimum a 20 gallon tank. Otocinclus Catfish should be kept in a school of 6+. Rummy Nose Tetra should be kept in a school of 8+. 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 →Rummy Nose Tetra
Hemigrammus rhodostomus
Rummy nose tetras are considered the ultimate schooling fish in the freshwater hobby. Their tight, synchronized formations are unmatched by any other tetra species. The vivid red nose serves as a health indicator — bright red means healthy, pale red means stressed. They prefer soft, acidic water and are slightly more demanding than neon tetras.
Full care guide →