Common Pleco
Hypostomus plecostomus · family Loricariidae
Also: Suckermouth Catfish
Parameters
- Temperature
- 22–26 °C
- pH
- 6.5–7.5
- Hardness
- 5–19 °dGH
- Tank volume
- from 380 L
- Maximum size
- up to 30 cm
- Group size
- min 1, ideal 1
- Temperament
- Peaceful
- Swimming zone
- Bottom
- Difficulty
- Intermediate
- Lifespan
- 10–15 years
Description
IMPORTANT: a true common pleco (Hypostomus plecostomus) reaches 40–50 cm in the aquarium and needs at least 380 L. For most home tanks under 200 L the bristlenose (Ancistrus sp.) is the right pick — see its own profile.
Juveniles of several species are sold as 'pleco' — Pterygoplichthys, Glyptoperichthys, and others. Always confirm the species when buying.
Care
Volume
From 380 L for one adult. Driftwood is mandatory: plecos rasp wood and this is an essential part of their digestion.
Feeding
Plant-based diet: sinking spirulina tablets, blanched zucchini, cucumber. Protein supplement 1–2 times a week (bloodworm).
Compatibility
- Caution
- Good
- Avoid
- Danger
FAQ
- Is the common pleco suitable for a 100-liter aquarium?
- No. Hypostomus plecostomus grows over 40 cm and will quickly outgrow this volume. For smaller aquariums under 150–200 L, the best choice is the bristlenose pleco (Ancistrus sp.), which only reaches 12–15 cm.
Goldie editorial team
Practising aquarists with a combined 30+ years of experience · Biologists and editors, fact-checking against FishBase and Seriously Fish · Every piece is reviewed by a qualified ichthyologist before publication
Scientific board — ichthyologists and veterinarians
Ichthyologists and veterinarians with university degrees · Reference FishBase, Seriously Fish and peer-reviewed literature · Sign every reviewed article with their credentials shown
Sources
- FishBase: Hypostomus plecostomus · FishBase · 2026-05-22
- Seriously Fish: Hypostomus plecostomus · Seriously Fish · 2026-05-22