What Do You Feed a Pleco?
'Pleco' is the common name for Hypostomus plecostomus, a species of freshwater aquarium fish. Plecos resemble common catfish, with an elongated body, sucker mouth and barbels (the 'whiskers' around the mouth). These unique fish have some equally unique care requirements.
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What to Feed Plecos
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While plecos are often purchased as 'algae eaters,' they usually need additional food. Give them vegetables such as spinach, lettuce, zucchini and potatoes. Algae-based tablets that sink to the tank bed and live foods like bloodworms are also good.
How to Feed
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Vegetables should be blanched (cooked in boiling water) for three minutes; let the pieces cool, then feed. If the vegetables are heavy enough to sink, just drop them into the water. Aquarium stores carry clips for anchoring vegetables that float to the tank wall. Sinking tablets will fall to the tank bottom once wet.
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When to Feed
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Plecos are most active during the night hours.
Other Pleco Tips
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These fish are primarily bottom-dwelling and like hiding places such as dense plants, log arrangements, and flowerpot pieces. They need driftwood to chew on, too; you can purchase it in pet stores. If your tank bottom is gravel, mix in some sand so it is less rough on the pleco's mouth.
Warning
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Some pleco varieties grow to two feet long; always research fish before bringing them home.
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