Otali Pleco - (Peckoltia otali)

🐟 Otali Pleco — (Peckoltia otali)

The Otali Pleco (Peckoltia otali) is a beautifully patterned dwarf pleco native to the Maroni River Basin of French Guiana. Known for its warm golden-brown coloration accented by dark banding, this peaceful and compact species is ideal for aquarists seeking a colorful, easy-to-care-for pleco for medium-sized aquariums.

🌊 Tank Setup

• 🏠 Tank Size: Minimum 30 gallons for a single adult or small group
• 🪵 Décor: Include plenty of driftwood, rocks, and caves for hiding and grazing
• 💨 Water Flow: Moderate to strong current with high oxygenation
• 💡 Lighting: Moderate to low lighting helps bring out natural color while reducing stress
• 🌿 Substrate: Fine sand or smooth gravel preferred for bottom dwellers

🍽️ Diet

• 🥬 Omnivore: Feeds on biofilm, algae, detritus, and small invertebrates
• 🥣 Provide a mix of sinking wafers, pellets, and frozen/live foods
• 🥦 Supplement with blanched vegetables like zucchini, cucumber, and spinach

🐟 Feed What We Feed at Jason’s Plecos & Cichlids!
Our plecos thrive on a balanced blend of protein-rich and plant-based foods designed to enhance color, growth, and vitality.

Recommended Foods:

• Fluval Bug Bites Pleco Formula
• Fluval Bug Bites Tropical
• Hikari Algae Wafers
• Hikari Massivore Delight

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⚖️ Temperament

• 🤝 Peaceful and shy, especially in new environments
• 🐠 Compatible with small, non-aggressive tankmates
• 🪵 Can live with other plecos when enough hiding areas are available

🧠 Behavior & Care

• 🌙 Primarily nocturnal but may graze during the day once comfortable
• 🧽 Actively grazes on wood and smooth surfaces
• 💧 Prefers stable, clean, and oxygen-rich water
• 🧪 Regular water changes and strong filtration are recommended

📋 Otali Pleco Quick Facts

• 🔖 Scientific Name: Peckoltia otali
• 🐟 Common Name: Otali Pleco
• 🌎 Origin: French Guiana (Maroni River Basin)
• 📏 Size: Up to 4.3" (11 cm)
• 🌡️ Temperature: 77–82°F (25–28°C)
• 💧 pH Range: 6.0–7.5
• ⚖️ Temperament: Peaceful
• 🏠 Tank Size: 30+ gallons
• 🍽️ Diet: Omnivore
• 🎯 Experience Level: Beginner to Intermediate

💡 Why Choose the Otali Pleco

• ✅ Peaceful nature — perfect for community aquariums
• ✅ Compact size — great for smaller tanks
• ✅ Striking golden-brown and black banding
• ✅ Active grazer that helps keep tanks clean
• ✅ Rare species not commonly available in the trade

🔎 Snippet

The Otali Pleco (Peckoltia otali) is a rare and peaceful dwarf pleco from French Guiana, admired for its golden-brown coloration and dark banding. Small, hardy, and ideal for community aquariums, this species is a standout choice for aquarists who appreciate beauty, personality, and easy care.