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.