Keeping Catfish, loach (algae eaters)
The ceramic media used in Reef One aquariums is not suitable for any of these fish to burrow about in; most of them also grow far too large. Therefore they are best left in the fish shop.With bright orange bodies and thick black stripes clown loach are very attractive bottom feeding fish. They grow to around 6 inches in length and should be kept in groups of at least four. These fish are better suited to very large aquariums.
Corydoras & Synodontis are smaller catfish that are very active, constantly foraging around in the aquarium. They grow to around 4 inches and are happier living in groups.
Otocinclus are small but difficult to keep. They require very specific water conditions, feeding and soft substrate.
Plecostomus (plec), sometimes called sucker mouth or algae eater, grow very, very big. The various types grow to 11-18 inches in length and therefore need very large aquariums. Although they do eat algae they also need special food and create their own waste and therefore are not very effective at keeping down algae in the aquarium. Even if they do make a dent on the algae population they will not remedy the water quality problems that cause algae blooms. An algae cleaning pad, regular partial water changes and light feeding will keep algae at bay and water quality good.
Ancistris (multiradiatus & gibbiceps) are very similar to plecostomus but grow even larger, and can reach 20 inches in length. Again these fish are not suitable for anything other than very large aquariums.
