Common Pleco

Hypostomus plecostomus

Grows much larger than most expect (30+ cm). Needs a very large tank; consider a dwarf species for smaller setups.

Care Parameters

Adult size

35 cm

Min tank

300 L

Temperature

22–28°C

6.5–7.5

5–15 dGH

Diet

Herbivore

Temperament

Peaceful

Water zone

Bottom

Difficulty

Intermediate

Schooling

Solitary or with other plecos in large tanks.

Suitable Plants

Weeping Moss

A unique aquarium moss with fronds that droop downward, creating a distinctive weeping effect. Perfect for attaching to driftwood or rock overhangs for dramatic visual impact.

Duckweed

The smallest flowering plant — a tiny floating fern that doubles its coverage in days. Excellent nutrient absorber but extremely difficult to remove once established. Use with caution.

Peacock Moss

A delicate aquarium moss with fine, feathery fronds that create a soft, flowing carpet. Attaches easily to hardscape and tolerates a wide range of conditions.

Cabomba caroliniana

Care profile for Cabomba caroliniana: medium light, medium CO₂, beginner difficulty.

Water Sprite

A fast-growing, fern-like plant that can be floating or planted. Provides excellent cover for fry and absorbs nutrients rapidly. Very easy to grow.

Compatible Invertebrates

Vampire Crab

A small, semi-terrestrial crab with striking purple coloration and bright yellow eyes. Requires a paludarium setup with both land and water areas.

Rabbit Snail

A large, striking freshwater snail with a conical shell and colorful body. Comes in orange, yellow, and dark variants. Active algae and detritus consumer, but slow breeder.

Vampire Shrimp

A large, impressive freshwater shrimp with fan-like appendages used to filter feed from the current. Can grow up to 15 cm and requires strong water flow and clean, well-oxygenated water.

Mystery Snail

A colorful, active apple snail that cruises the glass for algae and leftover food. Pairs lay their pink egg clutches above the waterline - remove them to avoid overpopulation. Keep hardness at 7-18 dGH and offer calcium-rich foods so the shell stays strong.