Plecos

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The aquarium should be well-stocked with plants and driftwood. When they're not busy grazing on algae, Plecos like to rest on driftwood pieces or in caves. This is not an active fish and thus the aquarium need not be the usual size for a fish that grows up to 18 inches in length, though the largest tank possible is appreciated. There have been stories of Plecos growing to 15" in aquariums as small as 15 gallons.
 
Provide a strong water current through the use of a powerhead or similar device.Plecos should not have to rely on naturally growing algae alone as their only diet. As they mature they lose their algae eating tendencies somewhat and must be fed a basic diet of sinking herbivorous foods. Lettuce or zucchini strapped to a rock with a rubber band makes a great snack for your Pleco. Dried algae tablets can also be purchased and make a great daily food. Plecos will generally leave plants alone providing they get enough vegetable matter in the diet.
 
Hypostomus plecostomus is a very hardy species that will adapt to most aquarium conditions. Avoid keeping the fish in extreme pH levels or temperatures and it will usually thrive.  
Due to the adult size of these catfish, most successful breedings have occured in ponds with steep clay or mud banks. They dig tunnels close to the water level and the males guard the eggs until they hatch.
 
Family: Loricariidae
 
Type: Catfish
 
Distribution: River of South America
 
Max Size: 18"
 
pH: Neutral
 
Temperature: 72-79° F.
 
Diet: Herbivorous
 
Breeding: Expert
 
 
Contributed by: Luis