Bigspot oto

Otocinclus macrospilus

A large round tail-base blotch is a useful visual clue; mature grazing surfaces and actual feeding matter more than a cleaner label.

Adult length: Up to 3.5 cm (standard length, without the tail fin)
Water temperature: 21–26 °C
Lifespan: 3–5 years
pH: 5.5–7.5
Hardness: 1–12 dGH

Natural habitat: Native to the Amazon River basin.

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Appearance and identification

Mottled upperparts, a pale belly and a stripe separated from the tail-base blotch distinguish its appearance. Compare the tail base and stripe edge with striped otos.

Floor and movement space

A 45 × 30 cm base.

Aquarium environment

Leaves offer resting and feeding surfaces. Group size is limited by food and space.

Diet and feeding

Provide accepted plant-based supplements and natural grazing surfaces, checking that each fish eats.

Same-species behaviour

Keep a group in a mature aquarium with reliable grazing surfaces. Timid individuals can lose food competition; monitor belly condition after arrival.

Sources