I need a pleco

[rjl420]

I have a common monster that I need to find a home for, and I want to get a new fancier pleco. I've read that clowns and zebras only get to about 6" but don't like to eat algae so I've come to the experts for advice. which pleco is best for me?

tank:

90 gallon planted tank
lots of driftwood
general community setup with angels, barbs, clown loaches and a schoool of tetras/similar fish TBD.

I want something that catches the eye (when not hiding).

pH is typically between 6.5-7.0
substrate is natural gravel laced with flourite

algae consumption isn't a real deciding factor, but it is a plus.

 

[clayt101]

Clown plecos do eat algae, zebras don't though. You could also try an albino bristle nose, nice color and eats algae.

 

[Wippit Guud]

*Starts reading the collecting mind of AC*

Humina humina humina

*DING*

Most will say either bristlenose, golden nugget, and rubber-lip plecos.

 

[fishypoo2]

Hi,
Bristlenosed plecos only grow to 5"-6" inches, are great algae eaters, compatible with most fish (except really aggressive ones), and are generally inexpensive. Thanks,

 

[Serrateeth_2002]

Common Plecos?These guys are huge though but if you take your time to observe it,it does have a personality.

 

[perrito_blanco]

Rubber-lip plecos (Chaetostoma sp.) are native to fast moving water and require a high oxygen environment. Hence, they appreciate a strong current somewhere in the tank to hang out in front of. They are also omnivores and wouldn't concentrate on your algae the way a Bristlenose Pleco would.

 

[rjl420]

thanks for the replies everyone.

I guess I should say that I rarely have any algae in my tank since it's pretty heavily planted so algae consumption is rather moot. really the only thing I want it NOT to do is eat my plants and to stay somewhat small (<6").

I think I'm still leaning towards a clown pleco or something similar. I also like the candy striped plecos (or something like that). do they also stay small(ish)?

 

[yannfulliquet]

Hi!
What about Sturisoma or Farlowella spp!
THese grow to about 8 inches. They do not touch the plants...except for very very tender ones ( especially Farlowella do that) They are peacefull, do not eat eggs. THey don't blow your whole set up while moving!!!!
Hypoptopoma spp are getting around 3-4 inches and look like huge Otocinclus and behavea lot like them.
Otocinclus and Parotocinclus are good as well but have a tendance to eat soft plants even if enough vegetables food are given....
Cheers
Yann