Oto's - shy or is it just me

jars104 · Post by **jars104** » 27 Jun 2005, 18:13

Hi all

Thanks for everyone's advice so far. Am getting addicted to cats of all kinds and am now thinking of a cat only tank!!

Anyways, got two common ottos which just seem to stick to a plant during the day and then when it's dark may venture out. They are very timid.

Any advice on encouraging them out? or is this how they are?

They are great btw!!

Sandtiger · Post by **Sandtiger** » 27 Jun 2005, 23:59

They like to be in groups if I am not mistaken but I don't know if it will help. Other than that and low light levels I cannot help ya. I have had two dwarfs for over a year and I hardly ever see them out when the lights on. When they see me or I turn the light on they bury themselves or dart under something.

MatsP · Post by **MatsP** » 28 Jun 2005, 10:19

Having plenty of hiding places also helps.

The more hidy-places, the safer the fish will feel, and thus be less scared when you turn up. Don't mean that their natural instinct of hiding will completely go away, but it may be slightly more outgoing.

--
Mats

bronzefry · Post by **bronzefry** » 28 Jun 2005, 15:22

I've noticed, in my limited experience, that Otos like to be in groups of some kind. In a 75 gallon tank I have 10 and they've been there since January, 2005. They seem to be out at all hours, but always in a group. Some of the groups are 3 or 4. Some hide underneath driftwood, some stick to plants. When it's almost time for the lights to go out, all 10 of them swarm together and swim about the tank. It's quite a site! These are just my personal observations. I'm a relative "newbie" to all of this.

jars104 · Post by **jars104** » 29 Jun 2005, 01:41

Thanks guys. Might buy one or two more!!