Pleco catfish - Hypostomus borellii

Scientific name: Hypostomus borellii

Common name: Pleco catfish

Family: Loricariidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 15 - 16 cm (5.91 - 6.3 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 6.5 - 7.1

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 4 - 19°N (71.43 - 339.29ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 22 - 25 °C (71.6 - 77°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

Overview

The Pleco Catfish (Hypostomus borellii) is a peaceful, bottom-dwelling species from South America. Known for their algae-eating habits and hardy nature, these catfish are popular among aquarists looking for efficient tank cleaners. They are best suited for larger community tanks due to their size and specific environmental needs.

Origin and Natural Habitat

Hypostomus borellii is native to the freshwater rivers and streams of Bolivia in South America. They thrive in slow-moving waters with plenty of submerged vegetation, driftwood, and hiding spots.

Appearance and Size

Pleco Catfish have elongated, armored bodies with a mottled pattern that helps them blend into their surroundings. In aquariums, they typically grow to about 15-16 cm (5.91-6.3 inches).

Tank Requirements

Tank Size: A minimum of 150 liters (40 gallons) is recommended to accommodate their size and activity level.
Water Parameters:

pH: 6.5 - 7.1
Water Hardness: 4 - 19°N (71 - 339 ppm)
Temperature: 22 - 25°C (71.6 - 77°F)

Tank Setup: Provide plenty of hiding spots using PVC pipes, driftwood, and caves. Subdued lighting will help mimic their natural environment and encourage activity during the day.

Temperament and Tank Mates

Pleco Catfish are peaceful and get along well with other non-aggressive fish species. Suitable tank mates include tetras, guppies, mollies, swordtails, rasboras, and other peaceful bottom dwellers like Corydoras catfish. They can also coexist with non-aggressive cichlids, such as keyhole cichlids or Bolivian rams.

Avoid housing them with overly aggressive or territorial species that might stress them out, such as larger cichlids (like Oscars), bettas, or fin-nipping species like tiger barbs. Fast, boisterous fish can also cause unnecessary stress and competition for food.

Feeding and Diet

Pleco Catfish are primarily algae eaters but thrive on a varied, balanced diet:

Algae wafers and algal-based flakes
Blanched vegetables like spinach, zucchini, and shelled peas
Occasional protein supplements like bloodworms or shrimp pellets

They are most active during the evening, so it’s best to feed them at dusk or after lights out.

Sexing

Sexual dimorphism is minimal in Hypostomus borellii, making it difficult to distinguish between males and females in captivity.

Breeding

There are currently no well-documented cases of Hypostomus borellii breeding in home aquariums. In the wild, they are believed to be egg scatterers, depositing eggs among dense foliage and submerged structures. Breeding in captivity may require replicating natural conditions closely, including water flow, temperature changes, and specific hiding spots.

Lifespan

With proper care, Pleco Catfish can live for over 10 years in captivity, making them a long-term commitment for dedicated aquarists.

Conclusion

The Pleco Catfish (Hypostomus borellii) is an excellent choice for aquarists looking to maintain a clean, algae-free aquarium while adding a peaceful, interesting species to their tank. Their hardy nature, combined with their calm temperament, makes them suitable for both beginner and experienced fish keepers. With the right environment and diet, these catfish can thrive and become a valuable addition to any freshwater setup.