Oto compatibility

[Phil22]

I recently added several otos to a tank well understocked. 20 gallons with only a single dwarf neon rainbow fish, a mystery snail and a rams horn snail. The rainbow fish seems to be bothered by the otos...picking at them constantly. I really like the otos, and was thinking about adding more rainbow fish, but not if they are going to stress the otos. ..I like them alot. Is it a species thing, or is it because it is a single rainbow? Do you think adding more dwarf rainbows would help or only add to the problem?

[jaysen]

rainbows like to school so it is likely gonna solve the problem. no way to know for sure until you try it. most pet stores have a fish return policy of a day or 2, so if nothing changes... can always take them back. also add some plants and hiding spots for the otos.

[Lupin]

Melanotaenia praecox do not usually peck at other species but will do if kept singly. All schooling fish, as a general rule, should never be kept singly or less than 4.

[artdale]

:iagree:
Usually praecox (and all rainbows) are absolutely peaceful.
Every time (rarely) I read of "aggressive" rainbows, the rainbow has been kept alone.

[Sean_14145]

Thanks for the responses. I'm going to look for more rainbows, and hopefully that will solve the problem. And jaysen, yes, I have a great local fish store. If it doesn't work, they will be happy to take them back.

[Phil22]

FYI, Sean_14145 is my son. I didn't realize I was logged in under his user name. Thanks again for the advice!