Panda Garra (Garra flavatra) and Otocinclus (Otocinclus spp.) are both freshwater fish species that are commonly kept in aquariums. However, despite their similarities, there are some key differences between the two species. These differences are important to consider when deciding which fish is the best fit for your aquarium. In this comparison, we will take a closer look at the origin and distribution, physical characteristics, care requirements, and behavioral characteristics of Panda Garra and Otocinclus, to help you make an informed decision.
Origin and Distribution
Panda Garra
Panda Garra is a member of the Cyprinidae family and is native to the fast-flowing rivers and streams of Southeast Asia. Specifically, it is found in the Mae Klong, Mae Wong and upper Salween basins in Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar. It also found in the tributaries of the Mekong and Chao Phraya rivers in Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia.
Otocinclus
Otocinclus, also known as Oto’s, are a member of the Loricariidae family and are native to the rivers and streams of South America. They are found in a wide range of environments, from small, fast-moving streams to large, slow-moving rivers. They are commonly found in the Amazon River basin and its tributaries, but can also be found in other parts of South America such as Brazil and Venezuela.
Physical Characteristics
Panda Garra
Panda Garra has a distinct physical appearance, with a brownish-black body and white spots that give it the appearance of a panda. They can grow up to 4-5 cm (1.5-2 inches) in length. They have a long and slender body shape with a pointed snout and a long dorsal fin. They have a lifespan of 3-5 years.
Otocinclus
Otocinclus is a small fish, typically growing to only 2-3 cm (0.8-1.2 inches) in length. They have an elongated, laterally compressed body shape, with a suction cup-like mouth that allows them to cling to surfaces. They have a light brown to brown coloration, with dark spots on their back and fins. They have a lifespan of 2-3 years.
Care Requirements
Tank Size
Panda Garra
A tank of at least 30 gallons is recommended for a single fish, but a larger tank is needed if you want to keep a group of them. A tank with a strong current and plenty of hiding places is necessary to mimic their natural habitat.
Otocinclus
A tank of at least 20 gallons is recommended for a group of Otocinclus, but a larger tank is needed if you want to keep a larger group. They should be kept in a tank with a moderate current, and plenty of hiding places, as well as a good amount of live plants to provide them with algae to eat.
Water Parameters
Panda Garra
They prefer a pH range of 6.5-7.5 and a water temperature of 72-78 °F. They also prefer a moderate to strong water flow, so a strong filter is necessary to mimic their natural habitat.
Otocinclus
They prefer a pH range of 6.5-7.5 and a water temperature of 72-78 °F. They also prefer a moderate water flow, but not as strong as Panda Garra.
Diet
Panda Garra
They are omnivorous and require a varied diet that includes both plant and animal matter. They will accept a variety of foods such as flakes, pellets, live and frozen foods, and even vegetables.
Otocinclus
They are primarily herbivorous and require a diet primarily of algae. They will also accept a variety of algae-based foods such as wafers, tablets, and fresh or frozen veggies.
Behavioral Characteristics
Both species are relatively low maintenance and do not have any specific behavior that requires special attention.
Panda Garra
They are peaceful and can be kept with other peaceful fish, but can be territorial and aggressive towards their own species. They are active swimmers and prefer to live in a group of six or more.
Otocinclus
They are peaceful and can be kept with other peaceful fish. They are active swimmers but tend to stay close to surfaces and hiding places. They should be kept in a group of at least six, as they are a social species and thrive in a group environment.
Sexing
Panda Garra
In adult fish, males typically have more pointed dorsal and anal fins and are generally slimmer than females. However, determining the sex of Panda Garra can be difficult, as both sexes look very similar.
Otocinclus
Males have more prominent odontodes on the pectoral fins and a slightly more curved ventral edge of the caudal fin. Females are plumper and have a straight ventral edge to the caudal fin. But like Panda Garra, determining the sex of Otocinclus can also be difficult, as both sexes look very similar.
Breeding and Reproduction
Panda Garra
Panda Garra are not commonly bred in captivity. However, when breeding does occur, the male will court the female and once she is ready to spawn, the pair will lay eggs on a flat surface, usually on a leaf or rock. The eggs will hatch in 2-3 days, and the fry will be free-swimming within a week.
Otocinclus
Otocinclus are also not commonly bred in captivity, but when they are, they are known to breed in the same way as Panda Garra. The male will court the female and once she is ready to spawn, the pair will lay eggs on a flat surface, usually on a leaf or rock. The eggs will hatch in 2-3 days, and the fry will be free-swimming within a week.
Disease and Treatment
Both Panda Garra and Otocinclus are relatively hardy fish and are not prone to many diseases. However, like all fish, they can be susceptible to certain illnesses if the water quality or conditions are poor or if they are stressed.
Some common diseases that can affect both Panda Garra and Otocinclus include:
• Ich (Ichthyophthirius multifiliis): a parasitic infection that causes small white spots on the fish’s body. It can be treated with a commercial ich medication or by increasing the water temperature to speed up the life cycle of the parasite.
• Fin rot: an infection that causes the fins to become frayed and discolored. It can be caused by poor water conditions or by injury. It can be treated with a commercial fin rot medication and by improving water conditions.
• Dropsy: a disease characterized by a swollen belly and scales that are standing out. It can be caused by a bacterial infection, poor water conditions, or a diet that is too high in protein. It can be treated with antibiotics and by improving water conditions.
Suitable Tankmates
Both species are peaceful, and do well with other peaceful fish and bottom-dwellers. They can also be kept with small, peaceful shrimp. They should not be kept with larger or aggressive fish that may harass or eat them. Both Panda Garra and Otocinclus prefer to live in a group of six or more of their own species, this will make them feel more comfortable and thrive in captivity.
Panda Garra
They are peaceful and can be kept with other peaceful fish such as Neon tetras, Ember tetras, Rummy nose tetras, and Cardinal tetras. They can also be kept with other peaceful bottom-dwellers such as Corydoras catfish and Kuhli loaches. They can also be kept with small, peaceful shrimp such as Ghost shrimp and Amano shrimp.
Otocinclus
They are peaceful and can be kept with other peaceful fish such as Neon tetras, Ember tetras, Rummy nose tetras, and Cardinal tetras. They can also be kept with other peaceful bottom-dwellers such as Corydoras catfish and Kuhli loaches. They can also be kept with small, peaceful shrimp such as Ghost shrimp and Amano shrimp.
Which Species Is Better Choice for Aquariums?
Both Panda Garra and Otocinclus are suitable choices for aquariums, as they are both small, peaceful fish that can add color and interest to a tank. The choice between the two may depend on personal preference and the specific conditions and inhabitants of the aquarium.
Panda Garra, with their unique brown and white coloration, can add a unique and interesting visual element to an aquarium. They are hardy fish that can adapt well to a wide range of water conditions, making them suitable for beginners and experienced aquarists alike.
Otocinclus, on the other hand, are known for their ability to help keep an aquarium clean by eating algae and biofilm. They are also active and interesting to watch as they move around the tank and search for food. They can be a little more sensitive to water conditions than Panda Garra and may require a more experienced aquarist to keep them healthy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question-1: What is the difference between Panda Garra and Otocinclus?
Answer: Panda Garra and Otocinclus are both small, peaceful fish that are often kept in aquariums. However, they are different species. Panda Garra belongs to the genus Garra, while Otocinclus belongs to the genus Otocinclus. Panda Garra have brown and white coloration that resembles a Panda bear, while Otocinclus are mostly brown or green with a distinct black and white striped pattern.
Question-2:: What kind of water conditions do Panda Garra and Otocinclus prefer?
Answer: Both Panda Garra and Otocinclus prefer water conditions that are similar to their natural habitat. They like water that is slightly acidic to neutral with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. They also prefer water that is soft to moderately hard with a dGH between 2 and 12. Both species prefer temperatures between 72-78°F.
Question-3: Can Panda Garra and Otocinclus be kept together?
Answer: Yes, Panda Garra and Otocinclus can be kept together as they are both peaceful fish that are compatible with each other. They both prefer similar water conditions and can be kept with other peaceful fish and bottom-dwellers.
Question-4: Can Panda Garra and Otocinclus be bred in captivity?
Answer: Breeding Panda Garra and Otocinclus in captivity is not very common, but when it does occur, it is done in the same way. The male will court the female and once she is ready to spawn, the pair will lay eggs on a flat surface. The eggs will hatch in 2-3 days, and the fry will be free-swimming within a week.
Question-5: What do Panda Garra and Otocinclus eat?
Answer: Both Panda Garra and Otocinclus are herbivores and they mostly eat algae, which they scrape off of rocks and other surfaces. They also eat small amounts of other plant material such as blanched vegetables, and pellet food. Otocinclus are also known to consume biofilm, which is a thin layer of microorganisms that can form on surfaces in an aquarium.
Concluding Remarks
In conclusion, Panda Garra and Otocinclus are both small, peaceful fish that can be a great addition to an aquarium. Panda Garra have a unique brown and white coloration that can add visual interest to a tank, and are hardy fish that can adapt well to a wide range of water conditions. Otocinclus are known for their ability to help keep an aquarium clean by eating algae and biofilm, and are active and interesting to watch as they move around the tank.
It is also important to note that both species have different requirements for water conditions, diet, and care. It is recommended to research and understand the specific needs of each species before adding them to your aquarium.
