The Plecostomus (From “Ikan Bandaraya” to Exotic Gem)

Category: Catfish / Bottom Dwellers

Difficulty: Beginner to Advanced (Depending on species)

Scientific Name: Hypostomus plecostomus (Common), Loricariidae family (Fancy types)

The “Janitor” Myth

If you walk into any aquarium shop in Kuala Lumpur or Penang, you will almost certainly see a tank full of dark, armored fish stuck to the glass. To the average Malaysian, this is the “Ikan Bandaraya” (City Council Fish)—named because they work hard to “clean up” the algae and waste in your tank.

However, labeling the Pleco as just a “cleaner” is a huge mistake. While they do eat algae, they are also fascinating, prehistoric-looking fish that come in stunning varieties. Before you buy one to clean your tank, here is everything you need to know.

1. The Two Worlds of Plecos

It is crucial to understand that “Pleco” refers to hundreds of different species. In the hobby, we generally split them into two groups:

A. The Common Pleco (Hypostomus plecostomus)

• The Problem: Sold cheaply (often RM 5 – RM 10) as small 2-inch babies.

• The Reality: These are monsters. They can grow up to 20 inches (50 cm) or larger. They produce a massive amount of waste (poop) which often dirties the tank faster than they can “clean” it.

• Malaysian Context: This is the species often found in our local rivers (Longkang). Never release them into the wild. They are an invasive species that destroys riverbanks and outcompetes local fish like the Keli.

B. The “Fancy” L-Number Plecos

These are the true gems of the aquarium hobby. They are smaller, more colorful, and perfect for display tanks. They are identified by “L-Numbers” (e.g., L128, L046).

• Blue Phantom (L128): A stunning deep blue/black body with white polka dots. They originate from Venezuela but are highly prized here. They grow to about 7 inches—manageable for a standard 4-foot tank.

• Bristlenose Pleco: The best choice for beginners. They stay small (4-6 inches) and are incredible algae eaters.

• Zebra Pleco (L046): Black and white stripes. Very expensive and rare, often costing hundreds or thousands of Ringgit.

2. Care Requirements

Tank Size:

• Common Pleco: Minimum 120 Gallons (Not recommended for most homes).

• Blue Phantom / Fancy Types: Minimum 40–50 Gallons.

• Bristlenose: Minimum 20 Gallons.

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 24°C – 29°C (Malaysia’s natural room temperature is usually perfect, no heater needed unless in an air-conditioned room).

• pH: 6.5 – 7.5 (Most prefer slightly acidic to neutral water).

• Flow: Many fancy plecos (like the Blue Phantom) come from fast-flowing rivers. They appreciate a powerhead or strong filter outlet to simulate a river current.

Filtration:

• High Bioload: Plecos are heavy eaters and heavy poopers. You need strong filtration (Canister filters are best). If you think your filter is “just enough,” it’s probably too small for a Pleco.

3. Diet: They Don’t Just Eat Algae!

A common reason Plecos die is starvation. They cannot survive on tank algae alone.

• Sinking Wafers: High-quality algae wafers or bottom-feeder pellets (e.g., Hikari brand).

• Fresh Veggies: They love blanched Zucchini (Timun Jepun), Cucumber, and shelled Peas.

• Driftwood: Crucial. Many Pleco species (especially the Royal Pleco and Clown Pleco) need to chew on natural driftwood to aid their digestion. Always keep a piece of driftwood in the tank.

4. Tank Mates & Behavior

• Temperament: Generally peaceful but can be territorial toward other Plecos. If you have a small tank, keep only one.

• Compatibility: They have heavy armor, so they can live with aggressive fish like Cichlids or Arowanas. They also do well with community fish like Tetras and Rasboras.

• Warning: Avoid keeping them with flat-bodied fish like Discus or Angelfish, as Plecos sometimes try to suck the slime coat off these fish while they sleep.

Summary Table: Which Pleco is Right for You?