Common Pleco Species

Plecostomus catfish, better known as suckermouth catfish or plecos, are popular bottom-dwelling freshwater aquarium and pond fish. These natives of Central and South America eat undesirable algae and any food that other fish miss. Many species, patterns and color varieties of plecos are available in the pet trade, but some species are easier to find than others.

  1. Common Plecostomus

    • Also known as janitor fish or Hypostomus plecostomus, the common pleco grows up to 20 inches or 50 cm long. However, they are often sold as small juveniles and so unsuspecting fish keepers may purchase a juvenile without realizing how large they get. These nocturnal fish prefer to hide in or behind decorations during the day. Once the common pleco grows between 8 to 10 inches long, it begins producing long strings of feces, according to "The Inspired Aquarium." Tanks need cleaning more often in order to remove these feces.

    Bristlenose Pleco

    • Also known as the bushy-nosed pleco or Ancistrus dolichopterus, this hearty pleco grows to only 4 1/2 inches long. It also sports so many barbells or feelers around its mouth that it appears to possess a bushy moustache and goatee. The bristlenosed pleco is also nocturnal but is more peaceful with other fish and other plecos than the common pleco. The colors are either albino or brown with leopardlike spotting.

    Zebra Pleco

    • Also known as Hypancistrus zebra, this vividly black-and-white-striped catfish is aptly named. They grow up to only 4 inches long. Also nocturnal, they are far more peaceful than the common plecostomus and do not produce as much feces. However, they are far more timid than the common pleco and so spend much time hiding. They often refuse to feed until after tank lights are out. Zebra plecostumus cost more than the plainer-colored bristlenose or common plecos.

    Clown Plecostumus

    • This is another common pleco species that grows to only 4 1/2 inches long. However, it lacks the comical bushy face and is much more boldy patterned like a leopard than a bristlenose. Individuals may be darker than others and change color as they age. Although clown plecos are peaceful with other tropical community fish, older fish can become aggressive to other clown plecos, according to "Freshwater Aquarium: Your Happy, Healthy Pet."