Otocinclus vs snails

[pehcao]

Hello Everyone,

I just have a quick question: In my new tank there's been a boom of snails lately, I don't mind them being there since there seems to be a consensus that they are beneficial to the ecosystem, however I'm just a little bit concerned regarding my 3 otocinclus, if the snails get out of control is there a chance they might out-compete the otos for food? If so, what can I do to ensure my otos don't starve.

[Colu]

If snail population gets to much use a snail trap or put blanched lettuce in tank take lettuce out in morning should have lots of snails on it

[lefty o]

a couple assassin snails will help keep the pest snail population in check also.

[FishyThoughts]

Otos will eat a wide variety of things as well. You can supplement their diet with blanched vegetables (zucchini is common), sinking wafers and some other foods. Mine would eat some of the shrimp pellets and algae wafers. They loved blanched zucchini, and often recommended to do organic and remove skin before blanching to reduce risk of pesticides.