Is a oto ok?

[daniel364]

Ok so ive been doing some research into bottom feeders and catfish for my tank and was struggling to find a nice little one that would be happy in my tank. It was only when i went to lfs i saw these guys, some little otos. Ive just been doing research on them and they seem as if they would fit in with my tank. i just wanted to see you veiw on these guys in my tank, about 2 or 3. My only major concern is that i have gravel. If you dont think these are compatibable in my what other bottom feeder or catfish would you suggest?
Tank specs below

Thanks

 

[jm1212]

otos are more of an algea eater, and the ones i have in my tank are almost neverlaying on the gravel, much less eat off of it. if you want bottom feeders that will look nice, try a trio of peppered corydoras or a quad of pandas

 

[daniel364]

hmm , i do want something that does stay mainly on the bottome as i have a lot of middle and top water fish. I do like the oto because of they're size and the fact that they eat algae which would be very helpful, though i do like the peppered corydas.

 

[jm1212]

you could get a pair of otos and a trio of pandas

or a pair of otos and a pair of peppered corydoras

 

[daniel364]

yeah thats an idea thanks! im begining to like the pandas too i think i will get a pair of otos and a trio of pandas.

Thanks

 

[jm1212]

thats what im here for

 

[reiverix]

Otos do better in groups. So do corys. I'd go one or the other with maybe 6 fish or so.

 

[fballguy]

I wouldn't do 6 cories in a 17 gal. aquarium. Not enough bottom space. 2 ottos and 3 cories will be fine.

 

[twig]

Cory are lifeless and boring to watch if you have less than six IMO. They are a big shoaling fish and only come to life when they are doing just that... shoaling loosely.

Sounds like shrimp would be of benefit to you moreso than catfish.

I'd recommend you try some Amano or Cherry shrimp.

If you've never had shrimp before start off with a ghost shrimp to see how you like them =) If nothing else you can return it. Ghost shrimp are usually sold as feeders and are like a buck each at most.

Ghost shrimp are bottom feeders and will eat any left over foods and such in the substrate. Amano/Cherry shrimp will also eat algae as well as filter crud.

 

[daniel364]

hmmm thanks for the suggestions. I dont know if i want o go into the shrimp market here. i do want something that is active, peaceful and doesnt mind gravel. i just thought that an oto would fit the bill. i see what you mean about the corys though but they are cool looking.

Thanks for the suggstions. keep em coming!