Marble Sailfin Pleco

Pterygoplichthys joselimaianus

CatfishIntermediate
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Species Details

Marble Sailfin Plecos are large, impressive catfish with beautiful marble patterns and distinctive high dorsal fins. They require large tanks but are peaceful community fish.

Intermediate Care Level

Basic Information

Size35+ cm (14+ inches)
TemperamentPeaceful
DietHerbivorous
Lifespan15+ years
Tank Size500+ litres (125+ gallons)

Water Parameters

Temperature
24-28°C (75-82°F)
pH Level
6.5-7.5
Hardness
5-20 dGH

Tank Mate Recommendations

Based on 1 selected species

Current Selection:

Marble Sailfin Pleco
Fully Compatible Species
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

Tetras

Various Tetra species

Characins
Size:2.5-7.5 cm (1-3 inches)
Care Level:Beginner
Temperament:Peaceful
100%
Compatible

Barbs

Various Barbus, Puntius species

Cyprinids
Size:5-15 cm (2-6 inches)
Care Level:Beginner
Temperament:Peaceful/Semi-aggressive
100%
Compatible

Danios & Minnows

Various Danio, Devario species

Cyprinids
Size:3-10 cm (1-4 inches)
Care Level:Beginner
Temperament:Peaceful
100%
Compatible

Rainbowfish

Various Melanotaenia, Pseudomugil species

Rainbowfish
Size:7-15 cm (3-6 inches)
Care Level:Beginner
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 pleco with beautiful marble patterns

Impressive high dorsal fin

Reaches 35+ cm (14+ inches)

Peaceful but requires large tank

Excellent algae eater

Produces large amounts of waste

Hardy and adaptable

Available as captive-bred specimens

Popular in large community tanks

Long-lived species

Compatibility Summary

Compatible Species6
Requires Caution6
View full compatibility analysis →

Care Requirements

Tank Size500+ litres (125+ gallons)
Temperature24-28°C (75-82°F)
pH6.5-7.5
Hardness5-20 dGH

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