Spotted Hypostomus - Hypostomus punctatus

Scientific name: Hypostomus punctatus

Common name: Spotted Hypostomus

Family: Loricariidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 20 - 30 cm (7.87 - 11.81 inch)

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Recommended pH range: 5 - 8

Recommended water hardness: 4 - 20°N (71.43 - 357.14ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature range: 22 - 28 °C (71.6 - 82.4°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: South America

Temperament to its own species: peaceful

Temperament toward other fish species: peaceful

Usual place in the tank: Bottom levels

Short description

This profile covers Hypostomus punctatus (Spotted Hypostomus): a robust loricariid peaceful toward most other fish but territorial toward similar plecos. Do not purchase as a “quick algae cleaner” for small tanks—dedicated care and filtration are mandatory.

Origin

South America; native to tropical river systems with moderate flow and abundant submerged wood/rock. Conditions are warm, well-oxygenated, with seasonal fluctuations.

Food and feeding

An omnivorous aufwuchs/biofilm grazer. Provide sinking algae/spirulina wafers, quality pleco pellets, and blanched vegetables (zucchini, cucumber, spinach). Supplement with small portions of protein (bloodworms, mysis, chopped shrimp or fish) 2–3× per week. Offer driftwood for rasping (fiber source), though it is not a true wood-eater like Panaque. Avoid fatty mammal meats (e.g., beef heart) as staple foods.

Sexing

External sexing is unreliable. Mature males may develop more pronounced odontodes and a broader head; females are typically fuller when gravid. Venting is the only consistent method.

Breeding

A cave/burrow spawner in nature (pairs use bank tunnels or snug cavities). Spawning in home aquaria is exceptionally rare due to size and space requirements; most successes come from very large ponds with earthen banks. If fry appear, offer powdered algae foods and crushed wafers once the yolk is absorbed.

Lifespan

With strong filtration and stable water, expect 10–15 years (longer is possible).

Behavior & compatibility

Generally peaceful with dissimilar tank mates, but males may be territorial toward conspecifics or similar-shaped plecos, especially over caves. Keep singly unless the tank is very large with multiple retreats. Avoid mixing with much smaller bottom fish that could be outcompeted at feeding.

Tank requirements

• Tank size: large footprint; think 300 L for an adult (bigger is better).
• Aquascape: sand or smooth gravel, ample driftwood, rounded rocks/slate, and several snug caves.
• Water: broad tolerance; prioritize stability and low nitrate.
• Filtration: oversized bio-mechanical filtration and regular large water changes—this is a heavy waste producer.
• Lighting: subdued/structured; allow some controlled biofilm on wood/rocks for grazing.

Care notes

Do not rely on any pleco as the sole “algae crew.” Balanced feeding and maintenance are still required to manage algae and detritus.

Picture

Bought by aqua-fish.net from jjphoto.dk.