Can Angelfish live with Otocinclus Catfish?
Caution — with care
Why
- Angelfish may eat Otocinclus Catfish; add only full-grown adults, because juveniles and fry will be picked off.
- Only a narrow temperature overlap — keep both around 78–79°F.
Sweet spot: both do well at 78–79°F and pH 6–7.5 — aim there.
Side-by-side
| Angelfish | Otocinclus Catfish | |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 78–84°F | 72–79°F |
| pH | 6–7.5 | 6–7.5 |
| Hardness (GH) | 3–12 dGH | 2–10 dGH |
| Adult size | 6" | 1.5" |
| Temperament | Peaceful | Peaceful |
| Min tank | 30 gal | 10 gal |
Together, plan on at least 30 gallons.
How to make it work
- Add only full-grown adults — never juveniles, which will be eaten.
- Target the overlapping water-parameter range and acclimate slowly.
Sort it with: An adjustable heater
Where to buy
- Otocinclus Catfish: buy at The Shrimp Farm · The Shrimp Farm live-arrival guarantee
Live-animal shipping: add a heat pack below 50°F, expect weather holds above 90°F, and schedule delivery for a moderate week when someone can receive it promptly.
Design the whole tank, not just the stocking
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Design a tank with Angelfish, Otocinclus Catfish →Everything compatible with Angelfish · …with Otocinclus Catfish