Scientific Name: Hypostomus plecostomus

Please note – The image used above is for illustration purposes only; Size, colour and sex may vary. Many of our livestock species are sold as juveniles and have not yet reached their full size and colour potential. If you have any concerns about the size or colour of the livestock you wish to order, please contact our livestock team via our support centre before placing your order. Due to the large quantities of livestock orders daily, the livestock team will are unable to select fish / shrimp to meet specific gender or aesthetic needs.

Approximate purchase size : 4 - 6cm
All Pond Solutions will always endeavour to supply as close to the approximate size range as possible. Due to variations from suppliers on rare occasions this may not always be possible. Images used are to show the full potential of the fish when fully mature and are not always representative of juvenile specimens.

How easy are they to care for?
A generally very hardy species, that will accept a range of tank mates.

How large can they grow?
Can exceed 10" over time. Will happily reach 5-6" inside 1 year.

Where in the world are they from?
Found in the Orinoco river drainage basins in Colombia and Venezuela.

What is the ideal number to keep together?
Can be kept by themselves or in groups.

What water conditions do they require?
Will happily live in a wide range of water conditions. Temperature ranges from 21 - 27 degrees C with a pH range of 6.0 - 8.0.

What should you feed them?
Any wood in the aquarium is an added bonus for these species. Will also feed on and foods that sink to the bottom of the aquarium but should be subsidised with Algae pellets.

How compatible are they with other fish?
Largely compatible with all species. Care should be taken in heavily planted aquariums as once they reach a large size they will uproot many plants.