Otocinclus and algae wafers

[mmramos]

Hi Guys,

Been reading here that one of the reasons for dying otos are starvation. I'm on my third batch of otos already . Even after 3 weeks they still die. Now I want to try feeding them with algae wafers. The thing is I have cories and checkered barb which eats the hikari sinking wafer like crazy. I'm afraid the otos will not have a chance to get close to the wafer. Will it be a different story if I use the algae wafers? Only otos will be attracted to it?

Thanks.

[|squee|]

Try cucumber slices hung on the half-height of the tank perhaps?

For me otos die because of improper acclimatisation. Those who make it past acclimatisation will live long.

[bryan]

The other fish will still eat your algae wafers as they also consist of common fishmeal. Otos being rather wimpy characters will not stand a chance. try breaking the wafer into smaller bits and throwing them all over the place.

[mmramos]

is it a must to put vegies or algae wafers for otos survival? the algae in the tank is not enough?

[oldman8]

Do you want to try having a algae tank? I threw in pieces of rocks and such things that will sink. Then i transfer a piece every week. I'd seen my oto swimming to it, some time after i drop it into the tank. Just be sure that the algaes don't infest your main tank thou. I wouldn't be responsible. hehe

[mmramos]

the rocks are from where? i have a problem with algae when otos are not there . just 1 week without otos the front glass filled up with algae. problem is the otos can clean up everything in 1-2 days. i think after they that they are starving.

[Quixotic]

Otos are omnivores, meaning they do take meaty stuff. They need variety of food, not just vegetable based food.

I feed my otos frozen bloodworms, frozen brine shrimp and live tubifex. In fact, they will take any food readily including granules, flakes, and for my case, their favourite is frozen bloodworms and live tubifex.

They are hardy if aclimitised properly and fed a variety of food. Mine made it past the two year old mark most of the time.

If you have other bottom feeders, spread the food around in smaller pieces or feed after lights out.

[mmramos]

Thanks! I'll try that.