Can Zebra Otocinclus live with Sailfin Molly?
Caution — with care
Why
- No overlapping water hardness: Zebra Otocinclus wants 2–10 dGH but Sailfin Molly wants 12–30 dGH.
- Only a narrow pH overlap — keep both around 7.5–7.5.
- Large size gap (Sailfin Molly 5" vs Zebra Otocinclus 1.5") — watch that the smaller one gets its share at feeding time.
Sweet spot: both do well at 72–79°F and pH 7.5–7.5 — aim there.
Side-by-side
| Zebra Otocinclus | Sailfin Molly | |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 72–79°F | 68–82°F |
| pH | 6–7.5 | 7.5–8.5 |
| Hardness (GH) | 2–10 dGH | 12–30 dGH |
| Adult size | 1.5" | 5" |
| Temperament | Peaceful | Peaceful |
| Min tank | 10 gal | 30 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
- Zebra Otocinclus: 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
Skapelab plans a complete, buildable planted aquarium around your fish — a hand-illustrated layout, the exact plants and hardscape, a placement map, and a full equipment and shopping list. Free.
Design a tank with Zebra Otocinclus, Sailfin Molly →Everything compatible with Zebra Otocinclus · …with Sailfin Molly