Dwarf Sucking Catfish

Scientific name: Otocinclus affinis

The Dwarf Sucking Catfish is a small suckermouth catfish, growing to 1.5 inches. It is active during the day if there are hiding places among the plants. A water temperature between 68º and 78º Fahrenheit, a pH between 5.5 and 7.2, and water that is relatively soft to moderately hard will be fine.

Aquarium Fish Image Gallery

Although the Dwarf Sucking Catfish does consume algae on the plant leaves and tank glass, this fish also needs to have flake foods with a high vegetable-matter content. Some hobbyists feel that this is the ideal algae-eater for community aquariums. This species does the job well without disturbing plants, it's small and inconspicuous, and it doesn't disturb its tankmates.