Fishkeeping - Caresheets - Common Plec (Common pleco, suckermouth catfish) - Pterygoplichthys pardalis, Pterygoplichthys disjunctivus

Common Plec
Alternative Name(s): Common pleco, suckermouth catfish
Scientific Name(s): Pterygoplichthys pardalis, Pterygoplichthys disjunctivus
Category: Tropical
Difficulty:
Maximum Size: 60cms
Minimum Tank Volume: 300 litres
Minimum Tank Size: 4ft
Water Temperature Range: 21-26°C
Water pH Range: 6.0-7.5
Water Hardness Range: 0-0 dGH

General Information:	A very hardy and long living plec, but beware these grow to phenomenial sizes VERY quickly and can quickly outgrow a tank. although suitable from beginner, this is definately a fish for the serious fishkeeper.
Tank Requirements:	vegetation and hiding places; bogwood is a useful hiding place and suitable for them to chew on as well. try not to have any sharp corners or intricate arrangements as these bulldozers will plough through anything. heater guards can be of assistance too
Diet Requirements:	like many other plecs they will feed on algae tablets or sinking catfish feed. can also be supplemented with cucumber, courgette, fresh pepper and shelled peas (skin all feed and remove after 24hrs)
Compatibility:	Generally peaceful. Watch for fin nippers housed in the same tank as them, they are prone to being bullied when young. unsuitable with other plecs, large angels & discus as gets territorial when older
Recommendations:	plenty of hiding places, bogwood, plants and lots of room to swim. A very large tank is needed for these fish, even starting with a 300l, you need to bear in mind you may need to increase tank size
Common Problems:	outgrowing a tank as these are purchased when tiny(about 3cms), can reach adult sizes at around 18months. when stressed changes to a very pale colouration. opportunists though rare can eat small fish
Similar Species:	bristlenose plec, sailfin plec
Sexing:	impossible to tell sex
Breeding:	unlikely in the tank, these fish usually dig holes under river banks of their orginal homes in warmer climates to spawn

Author(s): Complecs | Photo: | Views: 7895

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