Chili Rasbora and Otocinclus Compatibility Overview
Chili Rasbora and Otocinclus can generally share an aquarium with appropriate planning. Both species prefer overlapping temperature and pH ranges. Both species are peaceful, and neither poses a major aggression risk to the other. A minimum 20-gallon tank is recommended to provide adequate territory and water volume for both species.
| Factor | Chili Rasbora | Otocinclus | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 68โ82ยฐF | 72โ82ยฐF | โ 72โ82ยฐF |
| pH Range | 4.0โ7.0 | 6.0โ7.5 | โ 6.0โ7.0 |
| Temperament | peaceful | peaceful | โ Compatible |
| Adult Size | 0.8 in | 1.5 in | โ Similar |
| Min. Group | 8+ | 4+ | See below |
| Min. Tank Size | 20 gallons (for both species) | โ | |
Compatibility Positives
Caution Points
Species Profiles
Chili Rasbora โ Boraras brigittae
Vivid red nano fish from Borneo blackwater habitats. Extremely small โ only safe with fish too small to swallow them.
โ Full Chili Rasbora care guide
Otocinclus โ Otocinclus spp.
Tiny algae-eating catfish that are peaceful with all species. Need established algae growth and biofilm; sensitive to ammonia.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Chili Rasbora live with Otocinclus?
Yes, in a well-planned setup. Chili Rasbora and Otocinclus can generally share an aquarium with appropriate planning. Both species prefer overlapping temperature and pH ranges. Both species are peaceful, and neither poses a major aggression risk to the other. A minimum 20-gallon tank is recommended to provide adequate territory and water volume for both species.
What tank size do I need for Chili Rasbora and Otocinclus together?
A minimum of 20 gallons is recommended for keeping Chili Rasbora and Otocinclus together. A larger tank improves water stability and reduces territorial conflict.
What temperature suits both Chili Rasbora and Otocinclus?
72โ82ยฐF โ inside Chili Rasbora's 68โ82ยฐF and Otocinclus's 72โ82ยฐF.
Is a Chili Rasbora aggressive toward a Otocinclus?
Chili Rasbora is peaceful and Otocinclus is peaceful. No major aggression issues are expected between these species.
Related Compatibility Guides
Tank Size for Chili Rasbora and Otocinclus
Use the scenario that matches the actual group sizes and temperament you plan to keep.
| Scenario | Tank | When it applies |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum viable | 20 gal | Only for the recommended minimum groups, mature filtration, and close monitoring. |
| Recommended community | 29 gal | Adds territory, swimming room, and a safer buffer for behavior. |
| Low-conflict setup | 55 gal | Best when keeping larger schools or reducing territorial pressure. |