Common Pleco

Hypostomus plecostomus

CatfishIntermediate
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Species Details

Large pleco that requires massive tanks when adult. Often sold as small juveniles but grows extremely large.

Intermediate Care Level

Basic Information

Size30-45 cm (12-18 inches)
TemperamentPeaceful
DietHerbivorous
Lifespan10-15+ years
Tank Size750+ litres (200+ gallons) when adult

Water Parameters

Temperature
22-28°C (72-82°F)
pH Level
6.5-7.5
Hardness
5-20 dGH

Tank Mate Recommendations

Based on 1 selected species

Current Selection:

Common Pleco
Fully Compatible Species
Compatible

Malawian Cichlids

Various Pseudotropheus, Melanochromis, Labidochromis

Cichlids
Size:7.6-15.2 cm (3-6 inches)
Care Level:Intermediate
Temperament:Aggressive/Territorial
100%
Compatible

Angelfish

Pterophyllum scalare

Cichlids
Size:15 cm tall, 20 cm long (6 inches tall, 8 inches long)
Care Level:Beginner
Temperament:Peaceful/Semi-aggressive
100%
Compatible

Tanganyikan Cichlids

Various Lamprologus, Julidochromis, Neolamprologus

Cichlids
Size:5-20 cm (2-8 inches)
Care Level:Intermediate
Temperament:Semi-aggressive
100%
Compatible

Bronze Corydoras

Corydoras aeneus

Catfish
Size:7 cm (2.8 inches)
Care Level:Beginner
Temperament:Peaceful
100%
Compatible

Peppered Corydoras

Corydoras paleatus

Catfish
Size:7 cm (2.8 inches)
Care Level:Beginner
Temperament:Peaceful
100%
Compatible

Panda Corydoras

Corydoras panda

Catfish
Size:5 cm (2 inches)
Care Level:Intermediate
Temperament:Peaceful
100%

💡 Tank Mate Tips

• Consider adult size when planning tank space

• Research specific water parameter requirements

• Introduce new fish gradually to reduce stress

• Monitor behavior closely during the first weeks

Quick Facts

Large algae-eating catfish that grows very big

Can reach 30-45 cm (12-18 inches) in aquariums

Nocturnal and secretive during the day

Requires very large tanks 200+ gallons when adult

Herbivorous diet supplemented with vegetables

Produces large amounts of waste

Lives 10-15+ years with proper care

Often outgrows home aquariums

Needs driftwood for rasping and digestion

Peaceful but territorial with other plecos

Compatibility Summary

Compatible Species6
Requires Caution5
View full compatibility analysis →

Care Requirements

Tank Size750+ litres (200+ gallons) when adult
Temperature22-28°C (72-82°F)
pH6.5-7.5
Hardness5-20 dGH

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