Black Otocinclus - (Hisonotus notatus)

🐟 Black Otocinclus – (Hisonotus notatus)

The Black Otocinclus is a small, peaceful freshwater catfish native to South America, particularly Brazil. Known for its dark coloration and algae-eating habits, this species is an excellent choice for planted community tanks where it helps control algae growth. It thrives in well-maintained aquariums with stable water parameters.

🌊 Habitat & Care

🏠 Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons
🌊 Prefers soft, slightly acidic freshwater with gentle water flow
🪵 Provide plenty of plants, driftwood, and smooth surfaces for grazing

🍽️ Diet

🍤 Herbivorous/Algae eater — feeds on algae, biofilm, and supplemented with algae wafers or blanched vegetables
🐟 Benefits from a varied diet to ensure nutritional balance

⚖️ Temperament

🐠 Peaceful and social
🚫 Best kept in groups of 6 or more with other peaceful fish

🧠 Behavior & Special Considerations

🌡️ Temperature: 72–79°F (22–26°C)
💧 pH: 6.5–7.5
📏 Size: Up to 1.5 inches (4 cm)
⚠️ Sensitive to poor water quality; requires regular maintenance
🌿 Thrives in heavily planted tanks with stable conditions

📋 At a Glance

💡 The Black Otocinclus is a small, peaceful algae-eater, perfect for planted community tanks and beginner aquarists.