Hypostomus plecostomus

Family: Loricariidae

Hypostomus plecostomus — a Loricariidae from South America. Reaches 37.5–55 cm; keep at 20–30 °C.

Care parameters

Water temperature
20–30 °C
pH
6–7.5
GH hardness
5–18 dGH
Adult length
37.5–55 cm
Minimum tank
500 L
Water layer
Bottom-dwelling
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Peaceful; territorial over a favourite cave
Origin
South America

Species overview

Hypostomus plecostomus, a member of the family Loricariidae, comes from South America, where it inhabits rocky and woody stretches of streams. Peaceful; territorial over a favourite cave and herbivorous-leaning omnivore; algae and sinking foods, it grows to 37.5–55 cm and adapts well to a properly set-up aquarium in the 20–30 °C range. In a community tank it pairs well with Similar-sized peaceful community fish.

Native biotope

Habitat
Rocky and woody stretches of streams
Flow
Moderate current with well-oxygenated water
Dissolved O₂
Appreciates high dissolved oxygen

Aquascape & hardware

Substrate
Sand and gravel with driftwood
Hardscape
Driftwood and smooth stones with grazing surfaces
Plants
Hardy plants; algae growth welcomed

Temperament, diet & tankmates

Schooling
Singles, pairs or small groups
Diet
Herbivorous-leaning omnivore; algae and sinking foods
Recommended tankmates
  • Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs
Avoid keeping with
  • Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates

Breeding & notes

Sexual dimorphism
Males develop odontodes on the snout
Breeding method
Cave spawner; male guards the clutch

Frequently asked questions

Is Hypostomus plecostomus easy to keep?

Intermediate difficulty. Peaceful; territorial over a favourite cave; singles, pairs or small groups.

What temperature and water chemistry does Hypostomus plecostomus need?

Set the heater to 20–30 °C and avoid swings. pH 6–7.5, GH 5–18 dGH suit it.

How big does Hypostomus plecostomus get, and what tank size?

Full size is 37.5–55 cm. Minimum tank: 500 L, with open swimming space along its bottom-dwelling habits.

What does Hypostomus plecostomus eat?

Herbivorous-leaning omnivore; algae and sinking foods. Feed two small meals a day rather than one large one.

Can Hypostomus plecostomus live with other fish?

Peaceful; territorial over a favourite cave. Recommended tankmates: Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs. Avoid Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates.

Where does Hypostomus plecostomus come from?

Comes from South America: rocky and woody stretches of streams. Expect moderate current with well-oxygenated water and appreciates high dissolved oxygen.

How does Hypostomus plecostomus breed?

Cave spawner; male guards the clutch. Males develop odontodes on the snout.