* Neon Tetras: They are schooling fish and need at least a 10-gallon tank for a school of 6.
* Otocinclus Catfish: They are peaceful, but they need at least a 10-gallon tank for a group of 3.
* Overstocking: Having 9 fish in a 10-gallon tank is overstocking. Overstocking leads to stress, poor water quality, and increased risk of disease.
Here's a better plan for a 10-gallon community tank:
* Choose one type of fish: Stick with either 6 neon tetras or 3 otocinclus catfish. Don't try to mix them in a 10-gallon tank.
* Add some shrimp: You could add a small group of cherry shrimp for added visual interest and a bit of extra cleaning.
* Maintain excellent water quality: Regular water changes and proper filtration are essential in a smaller tank.
Consider a larger tank:
* If you want to keep both neon tetras and otocinclus catfish, a 20-gallon tank is a better option. This will give them more space to swim and thrive.
Remember, fishkeeping is about providing a healthy and comfortable environment for your pets. It's better to start small and then upgrade to a larger tank as your needs grow.