Common Pleco (Pterygoplichthys pardalis)

Fish in the family Loricariidae. Moderate care. Freshwater.

Quick facts

Scientific namePterygoplichthys pardalis

FamilyLoricariidae

Also known asSuckermouth Catfish, Amazon Sailfin Pleco, Janitor Fish

Care levelModerate

Reef safetyFreshwater

TemperamentSemi Aggressive

Dietomnivore

Adult size18 in

Minimum tank size125 gallons

Water parametersTemp 72-82°F, pH 6.5-7.8, GH 4-20 dGH

Appearance

Large mottled brown plecostomus with a broad armored body and tall fins; reaches well over a foot long.

Difficulty and care for the Common Pleco

Moderate

Origin and habitat

South America (Amazon basin)

Keeper notes

Generally peaceful but can become territorial with age and may rasp the slime coat of flat-bodied fish at night.

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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