Common Pleco (Hypostomus plecostomus)

Fish in the family Loricariidae. Easy care. Freshwater.

Quick facts

Scientific nameHypostomus plecostomus

FamilyLoricariidae

Also known asPlecostomus, Suckermouth Catfish, Common Plec, Algae Eater

Care levelEasy

Reef safetyFreshwater

TemperamentSemi Aggressive (some territorial)

DietOmnivore (algae, vegetables, sinking foods; more protein as it matures)

Adult size20 in

Minimum tank size150 gallons

Water parametersTemp 72-82°F, pH 6.5-8.0, GH 4-25 dGH

Appearance

Large brown mottled suckermouth catfish; juveniles look manageable but adults reach a foot and a half or more.

Difficulty and care for the Common Pleco

Easy

Origin and habitat

South America (widely distributed)

Keeper notes

Becomes territorial and sometimes aggressive with age; large adults may rasp the slime coat of flat-bodied fish.

Log Common 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 Common Pleco alongside everything else in your reef.

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