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The fish's suckermouth, with its fleshy lips, is located in an inferior position at the bottom of its head, as the fish obtains its food from bottom surfaces. [5] The white sucker is often mistaken for different species of suckers and redhorses, but can be distinguished by the complete lateral line system containing 55–85 small scales. [6]
Hypostomus plecostomus, also known as the suckermouth catfish or common pleco, is a tropical freshwater fish belonging to the armored catfish family (Loricariidae), named for the longitudinal rows of armor-like scutes that cover the upper parts of the head and body (the lower surface of head and abdomen is naked soft skin).
This genus, like other loricariids, is characterized by rows of armour plating covering the body, as well as the underslung suckermouth. They are generally small in size; O. tapirape is the smallest of the species (2.4 cm), while O. flexilis is the biggest (5.5 cm). [1] These species have adaptations that allow them to breathe air.
Members of the family Loricariidae are commonly referred to as loricariids, suckermouth catfishes, armoured catfish, or suckermouth armoured catfish. [4] The name "plecostomus", and its shortened forms "pleco" and "plec", are used for many Loricariidae, since Plecostomus plecostomus (now called Hypostomus plecostomus) was one of the first loricariid species imported for the fish-keeping hobby.
Pterygoplichthys multiradiatus. Plecostomus, pleco, or plec is the common name of several species of freshwater loricariid catfish commonly sold as aquarium fish.. These include:
Like other members of this family, it possesses a suckermouth, armor plates, strong dorsal and pectoral fin spines, and the omega iris. This species reaches about 30 centimetres (12 in) TL. [2] Hypostomus punctatus is difficult to distinguish from closely related species, such as Hypostomus plecostomus. Identification is relatively difficult as ...
As in all loricariids, these species have a suckermouth. They use their mouth as well as the pectoral, pelvic and caudal fin areas, to interact with the rocky river-bottom. The comb-toothed inferior mouth of Hypostomus is able to grasp green algae on the river bottom. With the help of the suckermouth, which anchor the fishes, in conjunction ...
These fish are often kept by aquarists, as they are dutiful algae-eaters and smaller in adult size than the common plecos usually seen in pet shops. They reach up to 15 cm (5.9 in) in males, and 12 cm (4.7 in) in females. Their recommended temperature is 23–27 °C (73–81 °F). Their lifespan is up to 12 years.