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Photo of: Common Pleco (Pterygoplichthys pardalis)
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Scientific Name(s): Pterygoplichthys pardalis, Acipenser plecostomus, Hypostomus plecostomus, Hypostomus punctatus, Liposarcus multiradiatus, Liposarcus pardalis, Plecostomus plecostomus
Common Name(s): Common Pleco, Plecostomus, Pleco, Common Plecostomus, Algea Eater, Amazon Sailfin Catfish, L23, L023
Family: Loricariidae
Species Type: Plecostomus
Maximum Size: 18 inches
Life Span: 15 years
Natural Habitat: South American River Deltas
Minimum Tank Size: 55 gallons
Tank Region: Bottom of tank.
Possible Tank Mates: An excellent community fish that can also hold it's own with large aggressive fish.
Description: Hypostomus plecostomus is often referred to as the Common Pleco, and is very widely available. Unfortunately, many beginning aquarists do not realize how big this fish will grow, nor do they realize that as the fish ages, it may become more agressive, especially to other plecos. It is a very hardy fish however, and is a nice addition to larger tanks. When of a proper size is able to hold its own with most other fishes. It is often thought of as only an algae eater, but while it eats algae very effectively, its diet should be supplimented with other foods, including sinking pellets, romaine lettuce, parboiled zucchini, sweet potato, squash, and green peas. Driftwood should be included in the tank. Plecos will often eat live plants in the tank. When purchasing a specimen, do not buy fish with hollow stomachs as this indicates the fish has not eaten recently, and will most likely not survive long after the trip home.
Temperature Range 70°F - 84°F
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| 60°F |
65°F |
70°F |
75°F |
80°F |
85°F |
90°F |
| pH 5.0 |
pH 6.0 |
pH 7.0 |
pH 8.0 |
pH 9.0 |
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African Catfish
