Pleco

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. With lifespans of 10–15 years, they are a long-term commitment.

Tablet food, driftwood, vegetables