Common pleco care
Pterygoplichthys pardalis
Common pleco (Pterygoplichthys pardalis) grows to about 45 cm (17.7 in) and needs a tank of at least 500 liters (132 US gallons). Keep it at 23–28 °C (73–82 °F) with a pH of 6.5–7.8.
FreshwaterMediumPeacefulEats algae
Adult size45 cm · 17.7 in
Smallest tank500 L · 132 gal
Temperature23–28 °C · 73–82 °F
pH6.5–7.8
GroupAlone or a pair
TemperamentPeaceful
SwimsBottom
DietHerbivore
Usually fine with
Neon tetraGuppyBetta (Siamese fighting fish)PlatyCardinal tetraBronze corydorasZebra danioHarlequin rasboraAngelfishMollyBristlenose plecoCherry barb
Avoid with
Paradise fishWhite cloud minnowConvict cichlidOscarJack DempseyDemasoni cichlidCommon goldfishKoiPea pufferFigure-eight puffer
Track your tank with Guppi
Log water tests by tapping your kit’s colors, get water change reminders and check every tankmate before you buy.
Typical ranges from hobby references, checked by hand. Individual fish and local water vary.
Pleco comúnCascudo comumPléco communLeopard-SegelschilderwelsPleco comuneVatoz balığı