Marbled sailfin pleco - Pterygoplichthys joselimaianus

Scientific name: Pterygoplichthys joselimaianus

Common name: Marbled sailfin pleco

Family: Loricariidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 21 - 28 cm (8.27 - 11.02 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 6.5 - 7.3

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 4 - 16°N (71.43 - 285.71ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 23 - 29 °C (73.4 - 84.2°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

Origin

The Marbled Sailfin Pleco (Pterygoplichthys joselimaianus) is native to South America, specifically found in the Amazon River Basins of Brazil.

Lifespan

In captivity, the Marbled Sailfin Pleco typically has a lifespan of up to 15 years.

Overview

Marbled Sailfin Plecos are best kept as solitary fish due to their territorial nature once mature. They can outcompete other fish for food, so if you include them in a community tank, supplement their diet with floating flakes for the other fish. It’s advisable to avoid adding other bottom dwellers unless the aquarium is large enough to accommodate separate territories for each fish, as their aggression can be quite severe in cramped conditions. They prefer dim lighting and benefit from hiding spots created with rocks or wood. Given their high waste production, ensure your filtration system is robust and perform weekly water changes to maintain water quality.

They can be included in community setups if tank mates occupy higher levels and require similar water parameters. Plants can be added, but be aware that mature Plecos may dig in the substrate and disturb the plants. While they can help control algae growth, don’t add them solely for this purpose.

When purchasing a Marbled Sailfin Pleco, ensure the fish is healthy by checking for a good appetite and a well-rounded belly, as a sunken belly indicates malnutrition.

Food and Feeding

Feed Marbled Sailfin Plecos with sinking foods. They will readily consume shelled peas, frozen vegetables, and algae wafers. Mature fish may also accept chopped prawns and pieces of fish.

Sexing

There are no visible differences between male and female Marbled Sailfin Plecos.

Breeding

There are no recorded instances of Marbled Sailfin Plecos breeding in captivity. In the wild, they lay eggs in tunnels dug into muddy riverbanks, where the male provides parental care. After fertilization, the female does not participate in caring for the eggs or the fry, which are released only once they are sufficiently developed. The male will protect and guide the fry back to the safety of the nest if any danger arises.

Pictures

Images provided by aqua-fish.net and sourced from jjphoto.dk.