Well, the lack of red streaks is definitely a good sign. Some plecos do have some naturally rough texture on parts of their bodies so that could be a bit of it. Usually for dropsy, the scales pop out along the abdomen, not just around the caudal fin.
The best I can tell you is to keep feeding the peas for now. I've noticed that broccoli works well for my gibbiceps.
As for plecos in general, even here, where tanks are much more reasonable, most are sold as "sucker fish" or "cleaner fish" and end up in tanks that are much too small for them. Just like goldfish unfortunately. They're probably a high profit margin for the stores though since they sell them sort of like equipment (buy this and you won't have to deal with algae) rather than as pets. Either that or there are a lot more large tanks in our area than I thought given the number of common, sailfin, and other large plecos that appear for sale around here.
Keep up the good work. If he starts pooping again then you'll know that improvement has occurred. Make sure to replace any uneaten food each morning. If he's not feeling well, he may only be eating at night. Additionally, try to make sure he has somewhere to hide out as well since plecos are actually pretty shy fish.
The best I can tell you is to keep feeding the peas for now. I've noticed that broccoli works well for my gibbiceps.
As for plecos in general, even here, where tanks are much more reasonable, most are sold as "sucker fish" or "cleaner fish" and end up in tanks that are much too small for them. Just like goldfish unfortunately. They're probably a high profit margin for the stores though since they sell them sort of like equipment (buy this and you won't have to deal with algae) rather than as pets. Either that or there are a lot more large tanks in our area than I thought given the number of common, sailfin, and other large plecos that appear for sale around here.
Keep up the good work. If he starts pooping again then you'll know that improvement has occurred. Make sure to replace any uneaten food each morning. If he's not feeling well, he may only be eating at night. Additionally, try to make sure he has somewhere to hide out as well since plecos are actually pretty shy fish.
