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Pleco
BeginnerCatfish with sucker mouth known as tank cleaners. Huge variety from small to large. Highly collectible.
Difficulty
Beginner
Temperature
24〜28℃
Lifespan
10-15 years
Size
5-50cm (varies by species)
Diet
Tablet food, driftwood, vegetables
About
Plecos (family Loricariidae) are armored catfish native primarily to the Amazon River basin and other river systems of South America, encompassing hundreds of species of vastly different sizes. Their sucker-shaped mouths allow them to rasp algae, biofilm, and organic matter from glass, driftwood, and rocks, making them prized aquarium cleaners. The body is covered in rows of bony plates forming natural armor. Size varies enormously by species: small varieties such as Ancistrus or Panaque species stay under 15 cm and suit tanks from 45 cm, while common plecos (Pterygoplichthys pardalis) grow well over 60 cm and require very large aquariums. Most species prefer moderate to strong water flow and well-oxygenated water. Driftwood is essential — it provides both shelter and supplementary nutrition. The primary diet is herbivorous: quality sinking wafers, fresh vegetables like zucchini, and spirulina-based foods. Most plecos are nocturnal, becoming most active after lights out.
Lifespan of the Pleco
The Pleco lives 10-15 years.
With lifespans of 10–15 years, they are a long-term commitment.
Size of the Pleco
The Pleco grows to 5-50cm (varies by species).
Temperature & humidity for the Pleco
The ideal temperature for the Pleco is 24〜28℃.
Basic Info
Origin
rivers of South America, primarily the Amazon basin
Lifespan
10-15 years
Care Specifications
- pH
- 6.2–8.2
- Hardness (GH)
- 28 dGH
- Water Temp.
- 24–28℃
Sources: FishBase
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Primary sources
Regulations & Conservation Status
Not CITES-listed
"Pleco" is a general term. Confirmed with representative species Hypostomus plecostomus. Loricariidae contains no species listed on CITES.
Sources: FishBase / CITES Appendices (Checklist)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Pleco Listings
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