Zebra otocinclus

Otocinclus cocama, the zebra otocinclus, is a small suckermouth catfish from the Rio Ucayali drainage of the Peruvian Amazon, prized for its bold black-and-cream tiger-stripe pattern unique among otos. It is a peaceful, gregarious algae-grazer that must be kept in groups of at least six, ideally more, to feel secure and remain active during the day. Best suited to a mature, stable planted aquarium with soft, slightly acidic water, gentle flow, and plenty of biofilm and soft green algae to graze; supplement with blanched vegetables and quality algae wafers, as starvation is a common cause of loss. It is sensitive to poor water quality and abrupt changes, so gradual acclimation and pristine, well-oxygenated conditions are essential. Entirely non-aggressive, it makes an excellent companion for small tetras, dwarf cichlids, and shrimp in a community setup.