Sailfin Pleco
Pterygoplichthys gibbiceps
Origin: Amazon and Orinoco basins, South America
Water Parameters
Quick Stats
- Max Size
- 50 cm
- Min Tank
- 200 L
- Lifespan
- 15–20
- Swimming Level
- bottom
- Schooling
- No
- Diet
- herbivore
- Temperament
- Peaceful but large; may uproot delicate plants
About
Pterygoplichthys gibbiceps, the Sailfin Pleco, is unmistakable — its enormous spotted dorsal fin stands tall like a sail, and its leopard-spotted body can reach 50 cm in large systems. A prolific algae and detritus eater, it is often used to clean new tanks quickly. Best suited to large tanks of 300 L+; it produces significant waste and requires powerful filtration. Docile with similarly-sized or robust fish. Popular as a juvenile but requires a long-term commitment.
Care Guide
200+ L as juvenile; 300+ L for adults. Strong filtration to handle bio-load. Feed algae wafers, zucchini, sinking pellets. Temperature 22–30 °C. Provide large driftwood for rasp feeding. Avoid housing with small fish as adults.
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