Amazon Sailfin Pleco (Pterygoplichthys pardalis)

Fish in the family Loricariidae. Easy care. Freshwater.

Quick facts

Scientific namePterygoplichthys pardalis

FamilyLoricariidae

Also known asPardalis Pleco, Common Sailfin, Liposarcus pardalis, Amazon Sailfin Catfish

Care levelEasy

Reef safetyFreshwater

TemperamentSemi Aggressive (some territorial)

DietOmnivore (algae, vegetables, sinking foods)

Adult size17 in

Minimum tank size150 gallons

Water parametersTemp 73-82°F, pH 6.5-8.0, GH 4-25 dGH

Appearance

Brown body with dense dark spots over the whole body and a tall sail-like dorsal fin; very similar to the leopard sailfin.

Difficulty and care for the Amazon Sailfin Pleco

Easy

Origin and habitat

South America (Amazon basin)

Keeper notes

Territorial as it matures; large adults can be rough on the substrate and plants.

Log Amazon Sailfin Pleco in your reef tank

Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Amazon Sailfin Pleco alongside everything else in your reef.

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