Nice growth! I wouldn't be too worried about the otos. I only had like 5 plants in my tank and for months I could only count 3 out of 7 so I thought they died but a month ago all the sudden I had 7 again and see them all regularly now, go figure. They are MASTERS of hiding & blending.
I found the otos... with the lights on. They were all on the back glass. With the black background and hidden in the val jungle they were barely noticeable. I caught a glimps of one and then traced them all down. lol
I despise that piece of wood! I bought it just because I want my bn plecos to get their fiber. When I get my 90 gal mazanita all the way! As far as the congensis on there you are right. Im sure one day it will get to big. But not any time soon. I do have a nana in my second tank...hmmm maybe I should swap em out!
I'll start by admitting I prefer picture books so I cheated going through your thread looking at all the pics. and your attempts have all looked awesome. I'm to chicken and/or lazy acutally both to do DIY co2. Put I'm always amazed and impressed by members who get such great results with DIY co2.
Keep up the good work and I'll visit this thread more often looking for pics...:thumbsup: