How to Handle a Plecostomus

A relative of South American catfish, the plecostomus, or pleco, can be an entertaining addition to home aquariums. Its large, sucking mouth allows it to feast on algae as it moves along the surface of the tank's glass, though they are no replacement for proper tank filters. Plecos are also get along well with a variety of other tank mates. Yet plecos are delicate fish and need to be handled carefully. When removing plecos for tank cleaning, you need to keep a few things in mind to ensure their safe transportation.

Things You'll Need

  • Aquarium
  • Bowl or plastic container (optional)
  • Large fish net
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Instructions

    • 1

      Decide whether to move your plecostomus in your hand or in a container or bowl. Care should be exercised with a young plecostomus especially, since they can be fragile (just over two inches long). Because plecos are nocturnal, consider moving them at night to avoid disrupting their natural patterns.

    • 2

      Hold the plecostomus flat in your palm, with your other hand gently cupped over its tail in case it attempts to jump. Some pleco owners advise against manual contact at all, since contact can remove the natural fish "slime." Hold a plecostomus only on rare occasions while transferring it during aquarium maintenance. Also be prepared for the possibility that your plecostomus might make an unusual noise.

    • 3

      Dip a bowl or container into the water to gently scoop out the plecostomus if you prefer to avoid direct contact, or use a size-appropriate net. Whether you hold or scoop the fish, keep your pleco in a temporary holding container, covered with plenty of water, only as long as necessary. Put the holding container in a cool, dark place where the water temperature will not drop or rise suddenly. Cover the bowl with screen or net so that the fish does not attempt a jump out.