Can Otocinclus Catfish Live With Swordtail?
Otocinclus Catfish and Swordtail are compatible. Temperature overlap 72–79°F. Both peaceful.
Conditions: Minimum 20 gallon tank.
Parameter Comparison
| Parameter | Otocinclus Catfish | Swordtail | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 72–79°F | 72–82°F | 72–79°F ✓ |
| pH Range | 6–7.5 | 7–8.4 | 7–7.5 ✓ |
| Temperament | peaceful | peaceful | Both peaceful ✓ |
| Max Size | 2" | 5.5" | Similar ✓ |
| Min Tank Size | 10 gal | 20 gal | 20 gal minimum together |
| Diet | Herbivore | Omnivore | — |
| Care Level | intermediate | beginner | — |
Tank Requirements for Otocinclus Catfish + Swordtail
To keep Otocinclus Catfish and Swordtail together, you need at minimum a 20 gallon tank. Otocinclus Catfish should be kept in a school of 6+. Swordtail 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 →Swordtail
Xiphophorus hellerii
Swordtails are hardy, colorful livebearers named for the distinctive elongated lower tail fin (the 'sword') found on males. They come in many color varieties including red, pineapple, marigold, and tuxedo. Larger than guppies but just as easy to care for, swordtails are excellent community fish that prefer hard, alkaline water.
Full care guide →