Description
Giant Otocinclus – Mighty Algae Eater with a Gentle Nature
Introduce an oversized solution to algae growth with the Giant Otocinclus (Otocinclus macrospilus). Known for its larger size compared to regular Otocinclus species, this gentle, algae-eating fish is a powerhouse when it comes to keeping your tank clean. Despite its larger frame, the Giant Otocinclus maintains the same peaceful, non-aggressive nature that makes its smaller relatives so beloved by aquarists.
With its sleek, silvery body and vibrant markings, the Giant Otocinclus is as visually striking as it is practical, grazing on algae and biofilm to maintain a healthy aquarium environment. These bottom-dwellers prefer to school and are a perfect addition to planted tanks, where they help keep both surfaces and plants spotless.
Key Features:
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Larger Size: Grows up to 2.5–3 inches, making it easier to spot while still efficient in algae control
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Gentle and Peaceful: A calm fish that’s ideal for peaceful community tanks
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Effective Algae Eater: Actively grazes on algae, biofilm, and other organic material, helping maintain a clean tank
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Perfect for Planted Tanks: Non-destructive to plants and loves grazing on algae-covered surfaces
Care Guidelines:
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Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons
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Water Temp: 74–80°F (23–27°C)
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pH Range: 6.5–7.5
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Diet: Primarily algae-based foods (algae wafers), supplemented with blanched vegetables or occasional protein-rich foods
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Lifespan: 5–7 years with proper care
Tip: Provide plenty of natural algae and biofilm for grazing, along with hiding spots such as rocks or driftwood to make them feel secure.
Bring an oversized solution to algae control and a unique presence to your aquarium with the Giant Otocinclus — a charming and hardworking companion that is both effective and low-maintenance.
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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