Our Guide To Keeping Sailfin Pleco
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About Fish Species:
- Scientific name: Pterygoplichthys pardalis
- Common name: Sailfin Pleco
- Family: Loricariidae
- Origin: South America, specifically the Amazon and Orinoco river basins
- Adult length: Up to 50 cm (20 inches)
- Lifespan: 10 to 15 years or more
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Tank Setup:
- Sailfin Plecos require a large aquarium due to their eventual size. A tank size of at least 200 litres (55 gallons) is recommended.
- Provide plenty of hiding spots and caves made of driftwood and rocks. They also appreciate areas with dense vegetation.
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Water Parameters:
- Maintain clean water with good filtration. Sailfin Plecos can tolerate a wide range of water parameters, but they prefer slightly acidic to neutral water with a pH of 6.5 to 7.5.
- Keep the water temperature between 24 to 28°C (75 to 82°F).
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Filtration and Water Flow:
- Use a powerful filtration system to keep the water clean as these fish produce a significant amount of waste.
- Aim for moderate water flow as they come from slow to moderately flowing waters.
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Diet:
- Sailfin Plecos are omnivores and will eat algae, plant matter, and small invertebrates in the wild.
- Provide a varied diet including sinking algae wafers, blanched vegetables like zucchini and cucumber, and occasional protein-rich foods like bloodworms or brine shrimp.
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Tank mates:
- They are generally peaceful but may become territorial towards other bottom-dwelling fish. Compatible tank mates include larger peaceful community fish.
- Avoid keeping them with aggressive or overly territorial species.
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Behavior and Compatibility:
- Sailfin Plecos are nocturnal and will spend much of the day hiding in caves or under driftwood.
- They are generally peaceful but may become territorial towards other bottom-dwelling fish. Compatible tank mates include larger peaceful community fish.