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Pleco ID,,,

Chiapet29

Plecostomus
MFK Member
I've had this pleco for about 8 months, got it from my lfs, was sold to me as a common plec, I've owned common plecos before & know this is not one? He has remained about 6in & has not grown, which is what I like most about him, any info on what type would be appreciated,,

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Yep, definitely a gibbiceps. I'd expect him to have grown in 8 months unless you're not feeding him enough. They get BIG.
 
Yep, definitely a gibbiceps. I'd expect him to have grown in 8 months unless you're not feeding him enough. They get BIG.
He has grown a bit he was a little smaller when I first got him, unfortunately I only have a 4 ft tank, was hoping he wouldn't grow too large
 
He has grown a bit he was a little smaller when I first got him, unfortunately I only have a 4 ft tank, was hoping he wouldn't grow too large

Depends on the dimensions of your tank. Mine's in a 4 foot. I don't think he's grown too large for it. He's only around 18" from nose to tip of his tail.
 
Depends on the dimensions of your tank. Mine's in a 4 foot. I don't think he's grown too large for it. He's only around 18" from nose to tip of his tail.
It's a standard 75gl 4'x18"x20" I would love to see a picture of yours full grown if you have any?
 
Pterygoplichthys gibbiceps is correct. This fish will (so long as your husbandry is appropriate) reach 24". Your 75g is unfortunately too small, and this fish will require something in similar dimensions to a 300g.

They need to constantly have food available - I recommend feeding yam, zucchini, bell pepper, squash, and other similar vegetables. You can also grow algae on rocks for him to eat, or increase your photo period slightly (do give them at least 10hrs of darkness to maintain their circadian rhythm).

I would also suggest providing some wood in the aquarium for him to graze on. While not a main part of their diet, it can help out with digestion. Provide the occasional prawn or slice of tilapia (maybe every week or two) if you don't have predators in the tank. If you already feed meat to predators then do not worry, he will get food from that. You do not want to over feed high protein foods as it can lead to digestive troubles.

Best of luck with the fish. If you can't provide a proper home I would consider looking for a new home for him ASAP. You're unlikely to get money for him as your situation is very common in the hobby. Maybe $10 at best.
 
It's a standard 75gl 4'x18"x20" I would love to see a picture of yours full grown if you have any?

Don't have any really good pictures but...
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