Description
Black Otocinclus – Rare, Efficient Algae-Eater for Peaceful Aquariums
(Parotocinclus sp. “Negro”)
The Black Otocinclus, also known as Parotocinclus sp. “Negro”, is a rare and highly sought-after algae-eating catfish known for its jet-black body and peaceful nature. Unlike the more common Otocinclus species, this variety features a deep, velvety coloration that makes it stand out beautifully in planted aquariums. Small, social, and incredibly effective at controlling algae, Black Otos are a fantastic choice for aquascapers and community tank enthusiasts alike.
Key Features:
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Striking solid black or dark charcoal coloration
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Excellent algae grazer, especially for soft green algae and biofilm
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Peaceful and social – best kept in groups of 4 or more
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Ideal for nano and planted tanks
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Rare and desirable alternative to standard Otocinclus
Care Information:
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Scientific Name: Parotocinclus sp. “Negro”
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Adult Size: 3.5–4 cm (1.5 inches)
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Temperature: 22–27°C
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pH Range: 6.0–7.5
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Tank Size: Minimum 40 litres
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Diet: Herbivorous – algae, biofilm, blanched vegetables, and algae wafers
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Compatibility: Very peaceful; safe with shrimp and other small fish
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Tank Setup: Well-planted with driftwood, smooth surfaces, and mature biofilm growth
Why Choose the Black Otocinclus?
The Black Otocinclus combines rare beauty with genuine utility, making it a prized addition to planted and community aquariums. Perfect for aquarists looking for effective algae control and a unique, peaceful species that thrives in clean, stable environments.
Click & Collect
Livestock will only be bagged once you arrive, or if you contact us in advance to request it ready beforehand.
Local Delivery
Order anything from our in-store range and have it delivered right to you.
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Minimum spend: £50
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Delivery up to 10 miles: £10
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Delivery up to 25 miles: £20
Distances are measured “as the crow flies”, not by road.
Once your order is placed, we’ll be in touch to arrange a suitable delivery date and time.
Please note, delivery may take a little longer as we often group orders together to build an efficient delivery run.
Important: If you’re ordering a large aquarium, please ensure someone is available to help unload the van on arrival.
Dry Goods Delivery
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DPD Next Day: 1 working day (order before 12 noon)
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DX Next Day (Heavy Items & Small Aquariums): 1 working day (order before 12 noon)
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Express Pallet: 1–3 working days
If you'd like to add more items to an existing order that hasn't yet been dispatched, please place a Click & Collect order and leave a note asking us to combine the orders.
Please note: We currently only dispatch parcels Wednesday to Friday.
Pre-Order
Want the full details? Check out our Terms & Conditions.
Livestock Delivery
Thursday Delivery – £24
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Dispatched Wednesday afternoon
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Delivered Thursday before 1pm
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Order by Wednesday 12 noon
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Minimum spend: £50
Friday Delivery – £24
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Dispatched Thursday afternoon
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Delivered Friday before 1pm
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Order by Thursday 12 noon
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Minimum spend: £50
Saturday Delivery – £29
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Dispatched Friday afternoon
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Delivered Saturday before 1pm
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Order by Friday 12 noon
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Minimum spend: £50
📦 Want to Add to an Existing Order?
No problem! Just place a Click & Collect order and leave a note asking us to link it with your original one (as long as it hasn’t been dispatched yet).
🛒 Dry Goods Now Included!
You can now include dry goods in your livestock delivery – perfect for topping up supplies in one go.
❄️ Please note: We can’t send frozen food with livestock – please order frozen items separately.
⚠️ Delivery Exclusions
Unfortunately, we’re unable to deliver livestock to the following postcodes:
Scotland & Isles:
AB30–AB56, DD8–DD10, DG3–DG9, DG12–DG14, FK17–FK21, KA18–KA19, KA26–KA30, PA20–PA38, PA80, PH3–PH40
Cornwall Isles: TR21–TR25
All of the following postcodes are excluded:
BT, HS, IM, IV, JE, KW
Plus Channel Islands and Shetland Islands
Payment & Security
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