Can Otocinclus Live With Royal panaque?

Detailed assessment

Both Otocinclus and Royal panaque share a comfortable temperature range of 24–26°C (Otocinclus prefers 21–26°C, Royal panaque prefers 24–29°C). Their pH ranges overlap well at 6.5–7.5, so water chemistry is compatible. Both species have low aggression scores (Otocinclus: 1, Royal panaque: 1 out of 10), which supports peaceful cohabitation. The size difference is significant: Royal panaque reaches 43 cm while Otocinclus reaches only 3.3 cm, and the larger species may view the smaller one as prey. Note: fish 2x+ larger may eat smaller tankmates With careful monitoring and adequate tank size these species can usually coexist, but be prepared to separate them if aggression or stress appears.