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Sailfin pleco
Pterygoplichthys gibbiceps
A tall dorsal sail and leopard pattern come with a large adult body; plan permanent space before buying juveniles.
A tall dorsal sail and leopard pattern on a large adult body.
- Adult length
- Up to 50 cm
- Water temperature
- 25–30 °C
- Lifespan
- About 20 years
- pH
- 5–7
- Hardness
- 5–19 dGH
- Native range
- Native to the middle and upper Amazon and Orinoco basins.
- Natural habitat
- Unknown
Appearance and identification
The long-based dorsal fin has many rays; pale lines separate dark markings behind a humped head.
Floor and movement space
Plan the adult footprint early; juvenile housing is not an adult standard.
Aquarium environment
Large fish can dislodge plants and decor. It is not a maintenance-free planted-tank cleaner.
Diet and feeding
Algae alone cannot feed a large adult; supplement with plant matter and suitable complete sinking foods.
Same-species behaviour
Allow ample floor and turning space, strong filtration and oxygenation.
Similar and related fish
