Species profile
Common Pleco
Hypostomus plecostomus / Pterygoplichthys pardalis complexCommon Pleco (Hypostomus plecostomus / Pterygoplichthys pardalis complex) aquarium profile: minimum 125 gallon tank, 24 inch adult size, 72-82°F temperature range, and advanced care. Can usually be planned as a single specimen or small group depending on temperament.
Community leaningAdvanced care
125 galMinimum tank
24 inAdult size
1Schooling minimum
72-82°FTemperature
Water Range
- pH
- 6.5-7.8
- GH
- 3-15 dGH
- KH
- 2-10 dKH
Behavior
- Temperament
- Moderate
- Fin nipping
- 1/5
- Territory
- 3/5
Diet and Care
- Diet
- omnivore
- Diet difficulty
- 2/5
- Care difficulty
- 4/5
Planning Notes
Large-growing species; needs long-term tank planning beyond the usual community aquarium.
This species may need live, frozen, fresh, or otherwise specialized foods.
Use the checker before adding Common Pleco to compare tank size, cycle status, cover, and tankmates.
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