Common Pleco (Hypostomus plecostomus) Care Guide

One of the most commonly sold aquarium fish, often purchased for algae control. Grows very large — up to 50 cm — and quickly outgrows most home aquariums.

Overview

Hypostomus plecostomus is a species in the family Loricariidae. One of the most commonly sold aquarium fish, often purchased for algae control. Grows very large — up to 50 cm — and quickly outgrows most home aquariums. Produces a significant amount of waste and is primarily nocturnal.

Taxonomy

Family: Loricariidae
Genus: Hypostomus
Scientific name: Hypostomus plecostomus
Other names: Suckermouth Catfish
Origin: South America

Habitat

Native to north-eastern South America and the Amazon basin. Inhabits a wide range of habitats from clear fast-flowing rivers to slow turbid backwaters. Often confused with related Pterygoplichthys species in the trade; reaches a much larger size than most home aquariums can accommodate.

Tank requirements

Minimum tank volume: 400 L
Temperature: 22-28 °C
pH: 6-7.5
GH: 3-15 °dGH
Water flow: moderate
Adult size: 30-50 cm
Lifespan: 10-20 years
Difficulty: intermediate

Diet

Classified as omnivore. Recommended feeding frequency: 1x daily. In captivity, offer a varied diet appropriate to the species — quality prepared foods supplemented with frozen or live items of suitable size.

Compatibility

Temperament: peaceful
Swimming level: bottom
Compatible tank mates: Oscar, Angelfish, Large Cichlids, Silver Dollar
Avoid with: Small Tanks, Other Large Plecos

Breeding

Breeding strategy: cave-spawner
Breeding difficulty: advanced