Common Pleco

Hypostomus plecostomus, also known as the suckermouth catfish or spotted pleco, is a tropical freshwater fish belonging to the armored catfish family (Loricariidae), named for the longitudinal rows of armor-like scutes that cover the upper parts of the head and body (the lower surface of head and abdomen is naked soft skin). They grow up to 50 cm (19.7 in) standard length, and live for 7–8 years in the wild, or 10–15 in captivity. Although the name Hypostomus plecostomus is often used to refer to common plecostomus sold in aquarium shops, most are actually members of other genera than Hypostomus.

Suckermouth catfish are of little or no value as a food fish, although they are at least occasionally consumed over their native range. A demand exists for them, however, as a bottom cleaner in the aquarium trade.

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