pleco

The plecostomus (Hypostomus plecostomus), or Sucker-mouth catfish, is a fish commonly used for consuming algae in fresh-water aquariums. The plecostomus is an herbivore, but will not consume large plants. Indigenous to most of South America, the plecostomus catfish can grow to be ~24 inches (~60 cm) in length on a diet consisting only of algae. The plecostomus is a passive fish, making it an ideal addition to a goldfish aquarium, or any fresh-water aquarium containing other good community fish.

Plecos come in a variety of colors and patterns, but they are all have bony plates covering their backs, and small, high set eyes. The body is elongated with a large head. They range in size from about 6 centimeters to about 45 centimeters.

Plecos are good aquarium fish, if you have room for them to grow. As mentioned above, they love to eat algae and will keep your aquarium spotless, altough they will eat your plants if not fed properly. They are good in groups or on their own, and will happily coexist with other fish species. Plecos are not overly active, spending most of their time hiding or stuck to the glass. It is important to provide them with plants and decorations to hide in. Plecos are hardy and easily adapt to differing water conditions.

Plecos originate from the Amazon and other rivers in South America.