Overview
The Common Pleco (Hypostomus plecostomus) is a intermediate freshwater species known for its brown-gray, dark spots coloration. Grows very large. Bottom and Surfaces.
Origin & Appearance
Origin: South America.
Colors: Brown-Gray, Dark spots.
Body Shape: Depressiform (bottom-flat). Typical adult dimensions: 50.0 x 25.0 x 6.0.
Sexual Dimorphism: Subtle; males have slightly broader head and thicker pectoral spines.
Tank & Water Requirements
| Min Tank Size | 125 gallons |
| Temperature | 72–86°F |
| pH Range | 6–7.5 |
| Water Hardness (GH) | 5-15 |
| Bioload | very-high |
| Oxygen Demand | high |
| Plant Safe | mostly |
| Aquarium Position | Bottom and Surfaces |
Behavior & Activity
Nocturnal wall-clinger; suctions to glass and surfaces; slow deliberate creeping at night; territorial tail-slapping
Speed: 20/100Aggression: 3/10nocturnal
Breeding
Difficult; cave spawner; needs large caves
Common Diseases
💊 Ich
Expert Notes
Grows very large; needs huge tank