{"product_id":"common-pleco","title":"Common Pleco (Hypostomus plecostomus)","description":"\u003ch2\u003eAbout the Species\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMany aquarium shops label various large loricariid catfish as “common plecos,” but the fish sold are often \u003cem\u003ePterygoplichthys\u003c\/em\u003e species rather than \u003cem\u003eHypostomus\u003c\/em\u003e. They grow rapidly and can exceed 18 inches, which surprises many new keepers. Their armour‑plated bodies and powerful sucker mouths allow them to rasp algae from glass and decor.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eHabitat and Tank Requirements\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTank size:\u003c\/strong\u003e Juveniles can start in 30‑gallon aquariums, but adults need 125 gallons or more with plenty of bottom area.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWater conditions:\u003c\/strong\u003e Maintain temperatures between 72–82 °F and a pH of 6.5–7.5. Strong filtration and regular water changes prevent waste buildup.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDécor:\u003c\/strong\u003e Provide hiding spots with driftwood and caves. Real wood is essential for some species to aid digestion.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eDiet and Behaviour\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile plecos are renowned for eating algae, they require supplemental feeding. Offer algae wafers, blanched zucchini or cucumber, and sinking catfish pellets. Some species also need driftwood to rasp. They are generally peaceful but may become territorial with other bottom‑dwellers when adult.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBecause of their ultimate size, plan ahead before purchasing a common pleco. Keeping them in a well‑planted tank with \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/monsteraquariumon9.com\/pages\/live-plants-for-fish-tanks\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003elive plants for fish tanks\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e helps replicate their natural riverine environment and creates shade. With proper care, these armored cleaners provide years of enjoyment.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"monsteraquariumonline","offers":[{"title":"2-3\"","offer_id":40854049358033,"sku":"","price":8.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"4-5\"","offer_id":40854049390801,"sku":"","price":23.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"6-7\"","offer_id":40854049423569,"sku":"","price":50.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0615\/9135\/5601\/products\/IMG_2210.heic?v=1649114084","url":"https:\/\/www.monsteraquariumonline.com\/products\/common-pleco","provider":"monsteraquariumonline","version":"1.0","type":"link"}