Pleco Tank Cleaner

Species Profile

• Scientific Name: Hypostomus plecostomus (commonly referred to as “Pleco”)
• Common Name: Pleco, Common Plecostomus, Suckermouth Catfish
• Adult Size: Up to 18–24 inches (45–60 cm) in captivity (can vary by species)
• Life Expectancy: 10–15 years, sometimes longer with proper care
• Habitat:
  • Native to rivers and streams in South America, especially in the Amazon Basin

  • Found in slow-moving or still waters with rocks, submerged wood, and vegetation

Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 75–100 gallons for adult size
  (Often sold as juveniles in pet stores, but grow very large)
• Ideal Temperature: 72–82°F (22–28°C)
• pH Range: 6.5–7.5
• Water Hardness: 4–20 dGH

• Temperament: Generally peaceful, but can be territorial with other bottom dwellers or other plecos
  Mostly nocturnal; prefers hiding spots during the day

Diet & Nutrition

• Omnivorous, but often mistaken as strictly algae eaters
• Requires a varied diet:
  • Algae wafers
  • Fresh vegetables (zucchini, cucumber, spinach)
  • Sinking pellets and wafers
  • Occasional protein like shrimp pellets or bloodworms

• Driftwood is important for digestive health in some species (e.g., Panaque)

Breeding & Spawning

• Challenging to breed in home aquariums due to their size and space requirements
• Requires specific conditions:
  • Large tank, warm water, caves/tubes for nesting
• Males guard the eggs in cave-like structures until they hatch

• Most breeding success is with bristlenose plecos (Ancistrus spp.), not common plecos

Appearance

• Long, armored body covered with bony plates
• Sucker-like mouth used for grazing surfaces
• Coloration: Brown to gray with dark spots or marbling
• Large dorsal fin, often displayed while resting

• Some species can change color slightly based on mood or environment

Distinctive Features

• Excellent algae cleaner, but not a complete solution for algae control
• Known for attaching to flat surfaces, including glass and decorations
• Can produce large amounts of waste—strong filtration is necessary

• Commonly outgrow small tanks—often rehomed or returned when they reach adult size