Can Black Molly live with Otocinclus Catfish?
Caution — with care
Why
- No overlapping water hardness: Black Molly wants 12–30 dGH but Otocinclus Catfish wants 2–10 dGH.
- Large size gap (Black Molly 4" vs Otocinclus Catfish 1.5") — watch that the smaller one gets its share at feeding time.
Sweet spot: both do well at 72–79°F and pH 7–7.5 — aim there.
Side-by-side
| Black Molly | Otocinclus Catfish | |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 72–82°F | 72–79°F |
| pH | 7–8.5 | 6–7.5 |
| Hardness (GH) | 12–30 dGH | 2–10 dGH |
| Adult size | 4" | 1.5" |
| Temperament | Peaceful | Peaceful |
| Min tank | 30 gal | 10 gal |
Together, plan on at least 30 gallons.
How to make it work
- Target the overlapping water-parameter range and acclimate slowly.
Sort it with: GH remineraliser
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 Black Molly, Otocinclus Catfish →Everything compatible with Black Molly · …with Otocinclus Catfish