Catfish

Plecostomus

The Plecostomus is a popular algae-eating catfish that helps keep aquariums clean. Nocturnal bottom-dwellers that grow surprisingly large and need substantial tanks as adults....

Height (male)

30–60 cm

Weight (male)

0.5–2 kg

Lifespan

10–15 years

Grooming

Low — algae-eating reduces maintenance

Exercise

Requires large tank — minimum 200 litres

Origin

South America (Amazon basin)

Coat Type

Armoured body with sucker mouth

Size

Medium

Temperament

Peaceful, nocturnal, solitary, hardy, territorial with other plecos

Good with children Good with dogs

Exercise & Care

Exercise: Requires large tank — minimum 200 litres. They need hiding places and driftwood.

Grooming: Low — algae-eating reduces maintenance. Supplement with algae wafers and vegetables.

Coat: Armoured body with sucker mouth

Health & Considerations

Known health issues

Starvation, ich, fin rot, constipation, poor water quality

Origin

South America (Amazon basin)

Size category

Medium

About the Plecostomus

The Plecostomus is a popular algae-eating catfish that helps keep aquariums clean. Nocturnal bottom-dwellers that grow surprisingly large and need substantial tanks as adults.

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