The Armored Suckermouths Plecostomus, or "plecos" as they are often called, belong to the Family Loricariidae, which is the largest family of catfish in the world. Diving into the captivating world of Pleco care can feel overwhelming for new fish enthusiasts, but worry not! Our ultimate guide is here to simplify the journey of keeping these fascinating fish happy and healthy. Known for their unique behaviors and beneficial algae-eating habits, Plecos are not just beautiful additions to your aquarium; they are essential for maintaining a balanced ecosystem. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything from tank requirements and ideal water conditions to diet tips and common health issues.
Scientists use a system of "L" or "LDA" numbers to identify plecostomus species, and at present, there are over 500 numbers with more being added each year. Some species, like the L046 Zebra and L177 Gold Nugget plecos, are brilliantly colored and command high prices in stores. Many plecostomus can breathe air due to modifications in their digestive tracts. For care and maintenance purposes, Farlowella and Otocinclus catfish can be included in this group.
Natural Habitat of Plecostomus
Plecostomus fish, commonly known as Plecos, originate from the rivers and freshwater basins of Central and South America. Most notably, they are found in the Amazon River and its tributaries. Most Plecostomus species are native to South America, although a few can be found in Panama and Costa Rica. They occupy a wide range of habitats, although a number of species have very limited ranges and are only found in certain parts of specific rivers. Many plecos live in fast-moving shallow streams and rivers, while others inhabit acidic black water, and still others favor quiet, brackish estuaries. Plecos are bottom-dwelling sucker fish that cling to submerged surfaces with their unique mouthparts. Their natural habitat consists of dim lighting, moderate water flow, and abundant biofilm and algae, which they scrape from surfaces. In high flow areas, they use their suckermouths to attach themselves to rocks and submerged trees to keep from being swept downstream.
Plecostomus Species
Beyond their intriguing appearance, Pleco catfish are highly functional aquarium inhabitants. There are many species of plecostomus, each with unique appearances and care needs.
Common Pleco
The Common Pleco is one of the most widely known species, often seen in pet stores. It features a long, thick body covered in mottled brown, gray, or olive patterns and armored plating. Juveniles are often sold when they're just a few inches long, but they can grow up to 24 inches in length. Because of their eventual size, they require a tank of at least 100 gallons.
Read also: Common Pleco Food
Bristlenose Pleco
Bristlenose Plecos are easily identifiable by the bristle-like tentacles on their snouts, especially pronounced in males. They are smaller than the Common Pleco, growing to about 4-6 inches, and come in various color morphs, including brown, albino, and calico. Their compact size, peaceful temperament, and excellent algae-eating capabilities make them a favorite among aquarists.
Clown Pleco
Known for its striking orange and black stripes that mimic a clown costume, the Clown Pleco is both decorative and functional. It reaches a modest size of 3.5-4 inches and does particularly well in smaller aquariums. It prefers tanks with plenty of driftwood, as it enjoys grazing on wood fiber.
Zebra Pleco
One of the most striking Pleco species, the Zebra Pleco features bold black-and-white stripes that cover its entire body. This rare and expensive species grows to about 3-4 inches and prefers warmer waters ranging from 82°F to 86°F. Unlike many other Plecos, it is more carnivorous and requires protein-rich foods. It also demands pristine water quality, making it more suitable for experienced aquarists.
Phantom Plecos
The Phantom Plecos include beautiful variations such as the Blue Phantom (L128) and Green Phantom (L200). The Blue Phantom features a dark blue or slate-gray body with bright white or pale yellow spots, while the Green Phantom has a deep olive or green tone with similar speckling. Both types grow to about 5-7 inches and are prized for their unique coloration and peaceful demeanor. They prefer aquariums with soft substrate, plenty of hiding places, and moderate water flow.
Plecostomus Water Requirements
Loricariid catfish are typically found in soft water with a low pH in the wild, however, many species sold today are commercially raised and tolerate a much wider range of water chemistry. A pH between 7.0 and 8.0, alkalinity between 3° and 10° dKH (54 ppm to 180 ppm) and temperature between 74° and 80° F will suffice for most captive bred species. If the aquarium is kept in a room below 74°, use an Aqueon Aquarium Heater to maintain the proper temperature. Wild caught fish may require a temperature in the mid to upper 80's, pH of 5.5 to 7.0, and alkalinity below 3° dKH (54 ppm), so it is best to research fish you are unfamiliar with before purchasing. Maintain good filtration and do a 10% water exchange every week or 25% every 2 weeks using an Aqueon Aquarium Water Changer or Siphon Vacuum Gravel Cleaner. Do not forget to treat tap water with Aqueon Water Conditioner before refilling your aquarium! Clean, stable water quality is essential. Most plecos prefer tropical temperatures between 72-82°F (22-28°C). Zebra Plecos may require slightly higher temperatures, around 82-86°F.
Read also: Comprehensive Guide to Gold Nugget Plecos
Housing Requirements for Plecostomus
With so many species of suckermouth catfish to choose from, no matter what size aquarium or type of fish you own, there is one just right for you. For example, the common pleco, Hypostomus plecostomus, can grow to over 12" and will eventually need an aquarium of at least 75 gallons, while Otocinclus will be perfectly content in a 10-gallon tank. Plecostomus tend to be secretive, so caves, hollow logs and other size-appropriate hiding places should be available in the aquarium. Moderate to good circulation should be provided to simulate the fast-moving rivers many species inhabit in the wild. Decorate the tank with driftwood for refuge as well as a source of food. Tank size varies greatly depending on species.
Plecostomus Behavior and Compatibility
Many suckermouth catfish are nocturnal and spend a good portion of the day hiding in a crevice or under an overhang. However, some will adapt to aquarium life and be more sociable during the day, especially at feeding time. Loricariids are compatible with most aquarium fish, although tank mates should be roughly the same size as they are. Large predatory fish may try to eat smaller pleco's or Otocinclus, resulting in the catfish becoming lodged in the bigger fish's throat. On the other hand, large plecos can be safely mixed with smaller fish as they will not usually try to eat them. Plecos are generally peaceful, making them great community fish. However, compatibility depends on tank size and the Pleco species. Most Plecos are solitary and territorial, especially males. It's best to keep one Pleco per tank unless you have a large setup (75+ gallons) with plenty of hiding spaces. Always choose a Pleco species that matches your tank size and long-term plans.
What Do Plecostomus Eat?
While plecostomus and other suckermouth catfish are typically sold as algae eaters, some species are carnivorous, feeding on carrion in the wild. Others feed almost exclusively on wood, so it is best to research the dietary needs of any species you buy. Aqueon Bottom Feeder Tablets, Shrimp Pellets, Tropical Granules and Algae Rounds can all be excellent foods for these catfish. Because of their nocturnal habits, many experienced hobbyists target feed their plecos once or twice a week with tablet or disc foods given at night. For best results, feed a variety of high-quality foods and rotate your fishes' diet daily. Feed once or twice daily, ensuring food reaches the bottom where Plecos naturally feed.
Plecostomus Breeding
While not much is known about the spawning behavior of many rarer species, a fair number of suckermouth catfish have been bred in captivity. They typically spawn in caves, with the male caring for the eggs until they hatch. Fry, or recently hatched fish, are voracious and must be fed frequently on a high protein diet such as micro worms, brine shrimp nauplii, sinking tablets or disc-type foods. For intentional spawning, a separate aquarium should be set up and breeders should be fed live or frozen foods for several weeks to condition them. Males will guard the eggs until they hatch in about 5-10 days. Feed fry with baby brine shrimp, infusoria, or algae-based fry food.