Sailfin Plecostomus

Pterygoplichthys gibbiceps

The sailfin pleco is sometimes known as the red gibbiceps.

Sailfin plecostomus catfish are popular because of their large size and decorative body pattern.

This catfish will be happy in any large community aquarium.

Although it reaches a significant size, the sailfin pleco does not show aggression toward other species.

Feeding Sailfin Plecostomus

The sailfin plecostomus loves to eat green food. Try feeding your sailfin pleco raw or partially blanched vegetables. Spinach from a can is also ideal. Lettuce leaves softened in hot water are also accepted. The plecostomus in is video is enjoying cucumber.

A small amount of protein from a chopped earthworm or some frozen bloodworms are usually also appreciated.

To breed them try using a large outdoor pond with leaf litter on the bottom. A compatible sailfin plecostomus pair will lay in Autumn as the water begins to cool.

Family - Loricariidae

Size - Up to 30 cm

Fish Origin - South America

Water - pH 6.8-7.5 medium soft water

Temperature - 22-26°C

Feeding - Mainly Vegetarian - likes a few frozen bloodworms

Sexing - No obvious differences

Breeding - Usually spawned in outdoor ponds

Aquarium - Needs a larger tank but is placid in temperament

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