Zebra dwarf sucker, zebra oto (Otocinclus cocama) care guide

Group
Freshwater fish
Other names
Zebra oto, Zebra otocinclus, Zebra dwarf sucker
Family
Loricariidae (suckermouth armoured catfishes)
Origin
Peru: the upper Amazon basin, in the Marañón and lower Ucayali river systems.
Water
freshwater
Maximum size
4.4 cm
Temperature
21–25°C
pH
6–7.5
Hardness
3–18 dGH (estimated)
Minimum tank
60 litres
Care level
intermediate
Temperament
peaceful

Care

The zebra oto is a small, striking Otocinclus with bold dark vertical blotches, unlike the plain stripe of the common otos. It has a complete lateral line with no gap in the plates. It was first imported in 2001 from the lower Ucayali and Marañón rivers in Peru. Keep a group of at least six in a mature, well-planted tank. Live plants are needed for long-term success; large-leaved plants, flat vertical rocks such as slate, bogwood and large rounded substrate give it surfaces to graze. The figures we read give 21–25 °C and pH 6.0–7.5. No source gives a tank size, so the 60-litre minimum is an estimate for a small group. Keep the water clean and stable. Females grow larger and broader than males, best seen from above. The IUCN lists it as Endangered (assessed 2014), so captive-bred or responsibly collected stock is preferable; ask the seller about origin. Sources: Aquatic Republic (aquaticrepublic.com/otocincluscocama), which shares PlanetCatfish's Cat-eLog data; we could not reach the PlanetCatfish species page itself at the time of checking. Checked October 2026.

Diet

Mainly an algae grazer. A mature planted tank with plenty of soft algae and biofilm is important. Supplement with sinking algae tablets and vegetables such as blanched cucumber, lettuce or courgette. Check that the belly stays rounded, as thin, newly imported fish can starve.

Breeding

No breeding reports are known. Other Otocinclus lay single eggs on leaves and glass after cool water changes, which may be worth trying with a well-fed group.

Compatibility and tank mates

Peaceful. Keep it with other small, calm fish such as small tetras, rasboras, pencilfish, Corydoras and shrimp. Avoid large or boisterous fish that take its food.

Last updated 5 October 2026. Community-edited care guide on Aquatic-Auctions.

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