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Amazon sailfin catfish
Pterygoplichthys pardalis
Often sold small, this spotted pleco becomes a large fish whose diet extends beyond algae.
- Adult length
- Up to 57.8 cm
- Water temperature
- 25–30 °C
- pH
- 5.5–7.5
- Hardness
- 10–20 dGH
- Natural habitat
- Occurs in rivers and streams.
Appearance and identification
Dark leopard-like spots cover a paler body with a relatively smooth head-to-back outline.
Aquarium environment
Adult bulk restricts fine layouts and usable space. A small juvenile does not suit a small planted aquarium.
Diet and feeding
Offer suitable complete sinking foods plus plant and animal foods. It feeds less on algae with age.
Same-species behaviour
Plan adult housing early: a tank at least 180 cm long.
Similar and related fish
