Information about the common pleco, and exciting facts about it

The common pleco is one of the most beloved fish in aquariums. It is characterized by its whiskers, unique stance, constant bottom-walking, and peaceful behavior.

In fact, its name does not relate to its behavior as it does not eat garbage, but the name comes from its evolutionary nature as it feeds on food that sinks to the bottom of the water.

In this article in TekeTrek Website, we will introduce you to the most important information related to this object. Follow along with us.

Where did the name “pleco” come from?

• If you are an aquarium enthusiast, you have undoubtedly noticed some beautiful fish that swim at the bottom, unlike other colorful fish.
• Whatever pet store you go to set up a new aquarium, they will undoubtedly tell you that you should buy a pleco because it cleans the tank by eating waste.
• But in reality, this is not true!
• Unfortunately, the pleco, which got its name from this idea, is not actually a creature that feeds on the dirt in the tank, but it has evolved to live in murky and low-oxygen waters in the wild.
• Therefore, it can easily survive at the bottom of the water, and because of this environment, it eats food that descends to the bottom, not food near the surface.
• Therefore, some believe it feeds on garbage.
• The real name for this type of fish, known as plecos, is Corydoras,Sucker fish scientific name is Hypostomus plecostomus. 
• Plecos that live in small streams, swamps, and ponds prefer shallow and murky areas.

Some interesting facts about the pleco

1. Plecos do not eat garbage; they only eat bait that sinks to the bottom.
2. Plecos are protein monsters.
3. Plecos are one of the most compatible species you can keep in a tank.
4. Plecos can live a long life.
5. The size of plecos can also vary depending on the species.
6. The water temperature in the aquarium is vital for plecos.
7. Sucker fish price ranges from $4 to $100 depending on the species.

Diet of the pleco

Plecos feed on worms, larvae, insects, and plants found at the bottom of all types of water bodies. These fish are carnivorous, and their main diet depends on protein. They also eat dead and decomposing fish.

For plecos living in aquariums, they should be fed protein-rich foods such as water fleas, brine shrimp, and bloodworms.

What is the behavior of plecos?

• Plecos are naturally quiet and self-sufficient species and can live peacefully with many different types of fish such as guppies, neon tetras, mollies, as well as angelfish, goldfish, and discus fish.
• But contrary to popular belief, plecos are social creatures. Therefore, if you are going to buy plecos for your aquarium, buy 3-6 fish to be more socially happy.
• The average lifespan of aquarium plecos is 5 years, but sometimes they exceed this limit. The longest known pleco died at exactly 27 years old.
• There are different types of plecos that live in aquariums and in the wild.
• The most obvious difference between these types is their size.
• The length of plecos ranges from 25 mm to 12 cm.
• Size difference is also an important factor in determining the sex of plecos.
• Female plecos are larger, while male plecos are more colorful.
• The dorsal fin in males is larger and more pointed, while the belly in females is wider.
• Despite all these differences, sometimes to know the sex, in such a case, leave the mixed group alone, and they will mate among themselves and reveal themselves.

The appropriate water temperature for plecos in the aquarium

• Although the pleco is a strong enough species to survive in many different conditions, great care must be taken in the water temperature of the tank it stays in, and do not forget that its original habitat is South America.
• The water temperature, especially during the breeding period, is very important for both parents and eggs.
• You should always maintain the water temperature, where the temperature of the male and female plecos you want to breed ranges between 21 and 23 degrees.
• It may take up to 3 days for the organisms to get used to these waters, and after acclimatization, mating occurs.
• It is very important to maintain the water temperature at 18 degrees after mating, a few days after spawning, the offspring will hatch.

How to care for plecos?

There are some important factors to consider when caring for plecos:

1. The temperature of the tank in which the plecos live should be about 25 degrees.
2. Sandy ground is important for plecos, as they get their food from the sand, however, care should be taken to ensure that the sand is not sharp and hard.
3. Internal filters should not be used, as they may be incompatible with other aquarium equipment.
4. It is important to provide specially designed submerged tablet foods for plecos.
5. Plecos can live in harmony with other tank inhabitants, but they should not be kept with aggressive species.
6. When arranging plants, avoid bottom plants, as these fish tend to search for food among the plants.
7. If the fins of plecos are damaged or torn, this may indicate health problems and should be carefully examined.

The most frequently asked questions about the scavenger fish?

•  What is a scavenger fish?

 The black’s tomes sweeper fish, also known as the pleco stomas or scavenger fish, is a member of the Labrada family and lives in coral and warm water environments.

•  What fish should not share the tank with a scavenger fish?

 Discus fish. And freshwater angelfish

• Do plecos feed on garbage?

No, they feed on worms, larvae, insects, and plants found at the bottom of the water.

• What is the lifespan of a pleco?

The average Sucker fish lifespan is 5 years.

In conclusion, although plecos may be misunderstood as cleaners for the aquarium, they are actually colorful and enjoyable creatures. Plecos can enjoy a long life under proper care and nutrition conditions. Therefore, if you are considering keeping these cute fish, it is important to pay attention to their special needs and provide the right conditions for them.

Source

• oltadeniz
• techno pixel

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