Can Otocinclus Live With Swordtail?
✅Compatible
Otocinclus Catfish and Swordtail are compatible. Temperature overlap 72–79°F. Both peaceful.
Conditions: Minimum 20 gallon tank.
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Parameter Comparison
| Parameter | Otocinclus | Swordtail | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 70–79°F | 70–82°F | 72–79°F ✓ |
| pH Range | 6–7.5 | 7–8 | 7–7.5 ✓ |
| Temperament | peaceful | peaceful | Both peaceful ✓ |
| Max Size | 2" | 5.5" | Similar ✓ |
| Min Tank Size | 11 gal | 20 gal | 20 gal minimum together |
| Diet | Herbivore | Omnivore | — |
| Care Level | intermediate | beginner | — |
Tank Requirements for Otocinclus + Swordtail
To keep Otocinclus and Swordtail together, you need at minimum a 20 gallon tank. Otocinclus should be kept in a school of 6+. Swordtail should be kept in a school of 4+. Provide adequate filtration, stable temperature with a heater, and hiding spots to reduce stress.
Species Profiles
Otocinclus
Otocinclus spp.
intermediatepeaceful11+ gal
The Otocinclus (Otocinclus spp.) is a intermediate freshwater species known for its brown-gray, dark lateral stripe coloration. Small algae eater. Surfaces.
Full care guide →Swordtail
Xiphophorus hellerii
beginnerpeaceful20+ gal
The Swordtail (Xiphophorus hellerii) is a beginner freshwater species known for its red-orange, green coloration. Males have elongated sword-like tail. Mid to Top.
Full care guide →Other Compatible Tank Mates
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