Stocking advised wanted

[Limming]

Upon further research what about otos for the bottom level? I'm concerned about the amount of algae that I'd need to grow and the level of care they would require what do you guys think?

[fishmommie]

ottos are not necessarily bottom feeders. In fact I see mine everywhere but the bottom. And you don't have to worry about growing algae - trust me. If your fill the tank, it will come :o)
Dwarf cories are your best bet if you want a bottom feeder. Cute little guys but they belong in a school of 6 minimum

[Limming]

Here's what I'm thinking now.

8-10 bloodfin tetra
5 or 6 ottos
and some ghost shrimp for activity on the bottom

Any one see problems with this stock list?

[fishmommie]

should work. You'd enjoy the activity of the corys a lot - they're really cute and without them it'll be up to you to clean up any left over food that accumulates on the bottom. but the ottos will take care of your algae.
You could add an apple snail or two ... they will clean the bottom to some degree - not like the corys but they do work at it. I LOVE my snails. really entertaining and move all over the tank.

[Limming]

I want cories but the problem is finding dwarf cories around here. I'll talk to my LFS and see if they can order some.

[steeler1]

I like your idea of bloodfins, the are a very underated Characin. They are both hardy, can stand lower temps and higher pH than most tetras. I think you could go 10-12 with them.

[Lady Hobbs]

I love otto's too but I think 3 should be enough in 20 gallons. You don't want them to get hungry trying to compete with each other for food (algae).

[Limming]

Ok I'll get 3 otto's and see about the dwarf cories. If I can't get dwarf cories I'll go with ghost shrimp.

[Pabz0r545]

If you are worried about algae growth you can always buy little algae wafers for the ottos to eat :)

[Limming]

That's what I'm planning to do at least at first.