What plecos need vegetables
| Species / genus | Natural diet |
| Bristlenose pleco (Ancistrus sp.) | Vegetarian, grazing on biofilm |
| Common pleco (Hypostomus sp.) | Omnivore, mostly algae and some meat |
| Clown pleco (Panaqolus sp.) | Grazing on wood, other plant-based foods |
| Flash pleco (Panaqolus sp.) | Grazing on wood, other plant-based foods |
What fish are compatible with a pleco?
Plecos are generally compatible with most other fish, apart from their own species. They can be kept with smaller fish such as guppies, loaches, platies, mollies, gouramis, and hatchets. They can live with cichlids and angelfish, but the pleco needs to be the same size or bigger than the cichlids or angelfish to withstand their aggression.
What Veggies can you feed a pleco?
Feed your pleco fruit and vegetables. Your pleco will enjoy a variety of vegetables, like broccoli, shelled peas, lima beans, kale, celery, cabbage, and zucchini. Though your pleco may enjoy small pieces of cantaloupe, honeydew melon, breadfruit, and papaya, you should avoid providing acidic fruits or veggies, like oranges and tomatoes. [4]
What is the best food for pleco?
The food items I list right below, are all perfect for Plecos:
- Algae wafers
- Driftwood – very important for all types of Plecos. This is a naturally encountered food source, so make sure they have plenty of it in the tank.
- Earthworms
- Bloodworms
- Shrimp
- Vegetables
How often should I Feed my plecos?
Types Of Pleco Food
- Algae And Sinking Algae Wafers. As we have already mentioned, algae and algae wafers are the primary constituents of a pleco’s diet.
- High-Fiber Foods (Vegetables) You can either blanch the vegetables or feed them raw, but make sure that they are washed thoroughly and cut into small pieces.
- Driftwood. ...
- Higher-Protein Foods. ...
How often do you feed common pleco?
While Plecos do eat detritus and algae, it will still need its diet supplemented. Feed your Pleco every day or every other day with Pleco-specific food. One to two times per week, feed your Pleco pieces of cucumber, zucchini, or lettuce (not iceberg).
What fruit and veg can plecos eat?
You can offer your plecos veggies like broccoli, shelled peas, lima beans, kale, celery, cabbage, zucchini, and others. It is best to cut your veggies into small pieces so your fish can easily munch on and consume these foods.
Do plecos need vegetables?
Vegetables. Plecos can eat vegetables. Romaine lettuce, the tops of celery and other leafy vegetables provide a good plant food source. Slices of cucumber, parboiled zucchini and parboiled peas are welcome in the pleco's diet.
Can plecos eat fish food?
Because plecos are omnivores, they will eat smaller fish, invertebrates, or crustaceans, especially if they are near the bottom of the tank. Typically, they don't kill other fish for food but will scavenge dead fish. Some species even feed on driftwood.
What is the best pleco food?
5 Best Pleco Foods ReviewedOmega One Veggie Rounds. Omega One Veggie Rounds contain high-quality ingredients that make them an excellent choice for most plecos. ... Northfin Kelp Wafers. ... New Life Spectrum Algaemax Wafers. ... Repashy Morning Wood. ... Repashy Soilent Green.
Do common plecos need driftwood?
Driftwood is important to all plecos definately. It is the most important thing you could have in the tank where plecos are concerned. They actually eat them for the bulk fiber which makes up part of their diet.
Can I feed cucumber to my pleco?
0:295:42#414: How to Sink Raw Cucumbers for Plecos - Tank Tip - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd they've come up with this really ingenious little tool to help you feed raw vegetables to yourMoreAnd they've come up with this really ingenious little tool to help you feed raw vegetables to your plecos.
How do I keep my plecos happy?
8:1112:51One Of The Most Mistreated Fish In The Hobby. Top 10 ... - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo use some common sense they generally won't hunt other fish. But if they get large enough and theyMoreSo use some common sense they generally won't hunt other fish. But if they get large enough and they're smaller fish in the tank. And they have the opportunity.
Can plecos eat bananas?
3:0310:51Pleco Vs. Banana - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipBut my plecos do not like bananas guys yeah they just get on it. And then they get off of it. BeenMoreBut my plecos do not like bananas guys yeah they just get on it. And then they get off of it. Been in here an hour they've ate through the you know the outer edge of it too.
How big do common plecos get?
As many, many aquarists have discovered, one of the big problems with the common plecos is that they get big. Really big. These guys tend to max out, in the average home aquarium, at between 12 and 24 inches, and some can get bigger. This puts the fish at a size that is far too large for average home aquariums.
Can plecos eat fish pellets?
4:1616:37How to feed Plecos - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipWhich is a obviously good for plecos. But my favorite is morning wood and I also like which this IMoreWhich is a obviously good for plecos. But my favorite is morning wood and I also like which this I found out by accident. These OSHA nutrition cichlid veggie pellets and they also have these cichlid
How do I know if my pleco is stressed?
If you notice that your fish is breathing heavily or gasping for air, or if you pick up on any behavioral (reduced activity, excessive hiding, sporadic movements or decreased appetite), physical (nicks or tears) or color changes (lighter to darker, darker to lighter, discoloration or spots), they could be suffering ...
What fruits can I feed my pleco?
Though your pleco may enjoy small pieces of cantaloupe, honeydew melon, breadfruit, and papaya, you should avoid providing acidic fruits or veggies, like oranges and tomatoes. Simply wash and slice the fruit or veggies into small pieces to prepare them for your pleco.
Can you feed a pleco a banana?
3:0310:51Pleco Vs. Banana - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipBut my plecos do not like bananas guys yeah they just get on it. And then they get off of it. BeenMoreBut my plecos do not like bananas guys yeah they just get on it. And then they get off of it. Been in here an hour they've ate through the you know the outer edge of it too.
Can plecos eat raw broccoli?
Broccoli seems to be a vegetable almost all plecos like. Especially the common pleco like eating the florets of this vegetable. You can either choose to boil your broccoli or feed it raw.
Can plecos have strawberries?
Many pleco owners report feeding their fish a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables. Some of these fresh vegetables include sweet potato, lettuce, spinach, broccoli, and even strawberries.
What do plecos eat?
Some plecos lean toward eating meatier foods, and all of them will enjoy occasional meals of small worms, insect larvae, crustaceans or such. These high-protein treats are no doubt similar to the small creatures they could capture while grazing on algae beds in the wild. I do give frozen bloodworms to my plecos with some regularity, and during gardening season, treats of small (or chopped- don’t gag please, they really are frozen and broken) earthworms. The only trick is to feed the cats in mixed tanks without the other fish stealing the treats. I do this using red lights after the regular tank lights and room lights are out, but then everybody already knows I am a bit crazy.
What fish are attacking my pleco catfish?
A recurring theme on the boards are pleas for help, shock, and dismay from tank keepers whose pleco catfish are attacking their prize Discus, Gouramis, Silver Dollars, Goldfish, or any other fish with a large enough body for the pleco to grasp with their mouth.
What is the best lettuce for fish?
Leaf lettuces are also popular and good foods for these fish. Romaine is the most commonly suggested, but most dark leaf lettuces can be used. Iceberg lettuce is low in food value and would provide essentially bulk only, I do not use it. Leaves are best either blanched or frozen.
Do plecos like brackish conditions?
But they get rather large and like brackish conditions. Plecos also will not do well with only the leftovers from the other fish. Hopefully there will not be enough of that to keep them going, and it is not likely to be an adequate diet.
Can pleco cats eat algae?
Algae. Most of us purchase our first pleco cat as an algae eater. Most of these fish will do that, with some reservations. The Hypostomus-type plecos will usually do a pretty good job on the tank glass, river rock, and large pieces of driftwood. But they quickly grow too large and heavy to work on plant leaves.
Is a zebra pleco herbivore?
At least one population of the currently popular and expensive Zebra Pleco is such a fish. It appears to be more adapted to a micropredator lifestyle than to be herbivorous. But the majority are herbivores. Feeding in tanks is not difficult, but they do need to have a higher bulk diet than most other fish.
Is Java Fern a fishkeeper problem?
They would prefer softer, more readily available food, but if there is not any, they will eat what they can get. This can include just about any plant we grow, with the probable exception of Java Fern. This behavior is not a fish problem; it is a fishkeeper problem.
What to feed plecos?
Since they are omnivores, you can feed them with some meat and veggies too.
What is the best pleco wafer?
These can be touted as one of the best pleco wafers because they are formulated with essential nutrients that are sourced from plant-based foods like vegetables and algae. Unquestionably, these are perfect options because they can help sustain vibrant fish coloration, boost stronger immune system functions, reduce poor digestion and stress-related concerns, as well as improve metabolic functions. It is amazing that even though its price tag is really cheap, it can offer your fish with lots of health perks.
What is the best food for finned fish?
Tetra Algae Wafers. Vegetable-fortified basic foods for all kinds of bottom-feeding fish like plecos are essential to consider because aside from meat, your finned buddies also need some plant-based foods for them to thrive. These foods are easy to digest and are known to contain generous amounts of fiber.
What is the responsibility of fish owners?
As fish owners, it is our sole responsibility to feed them right, keep them healthy, and maintain a good shelter for them while they are in our care.
Why do shrimp need a snail feeder?
Many shrimp, snail, and bottom fish feeders’ keepers prefer this product over other options because it is made with a blended formula of essential vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients that these aquatic creatures precisely require to stay healthy and vigorous. More than that, feeding is made a lot easier since this food is palatable enough to attract even the pickiest eaters inside the aquarium.
Can plecos eat algae wafers?
Some plecos and other algae eaters are not attracted to these foods. Overall, these algae wafers are ideal for feeding plecos. They are made with all-veggie protein contents that make them highly recommended for differently sized herbivore grazers.
Why is it important to know what kind of food a fish eats?
The reason for this is because it is in this manner you can ensure that they could live healthily and thrive inside the fish tank.
What do plecos eat?
Plecos are as happy eating vegetables as they are when being fed meat. They love spinach, peas, cucumber, zucchini, and leaves of lettuce. Since they prefer to stay at the bottom of the tanks, they tend to eat up crustaceans and driftwoods, so that also forms part of the food.
What is the best temperature for a pleco fish?
Since this fish needs a lot of oxygen, it requires perfect freshwater all the time. The ideal temperature of the water is between 72 degrees and 86 degrees F and the most optimal pH level between 6.5 and 7.5. There are close to 150 species in this family, and the most common of them all is termed as the common pleco.
Why do pleco fish sleep at night?
During the night, the lens-like organ helps the fish to let in just the right amount of light needed for them to swim through the tanks feeding and nibbling.
Why does my pleco have white spots on the fins?
This could be caused by oomycetes and is more likely to be a subsequent reaction to an already existing skin infection. There is a white fungal infection that develops on the fins of your fish, and this is more likely to happen when the pleco is already going through another infection.
What is the disease of pleco fish?
If you see that your fishes have white patches all over their bodies, then it is absolutely likely that they have contracted this disease.
What causes pleco fish to have white spots?
If you see that your fishes have white patches all over their bodies, then it is absolutely likely that they have contracted this disease . The best way to get your fish alright is first to take them out separately and treat the water, by heating it to kill the bacteria causing the ich. If one of your fish is afflicted, then it is very likely that all of your fish are already affected as this spreads fast.
How big can a pleco get?
This fish can grow really large and can become as big as 24 inches in its natural surroundings. However, when housed in ...
How many gallons of water do plecos need?
Adult Common Plecos need a tank size of 75 to 80 gallons at the very minimum. However, to help your fish reach its full size and potential you’ll need at least 150 gallons!
Where do Plecos come from?
Originally, this species comes from South America. Specifically, they are abundant in countries like Brazil, the Guianas, and Trinidad and Tobago. Author Note: Common Plecos have started to appear in several countries around the world, too.
How long do Plecos live?
In pristine conditions, the typical Common Pleco lifespan is between 10 and 15 years! They have a longer life expectancy than most tropical fish, so be prepared for years of care.
What is a suckers fish?
Lovingly referred to as a “Sucker Fish” in many circles, the Common Pleco (scientific name: Hypostomus plecostomus) is a freshwater aquarium staple! These fish have been in the trade for decades and continue to captivate fish enthusiasts.
What color are plecos?
When it comes to coloration, Common Plecos are pretty simple. They have a base color of brown. Several small black splotches cover the entire body, creating a unique net-like effect.
How big is a common pleco?
The average Common Pleco size in captivity is around 15 inches in length when fully grown. They’re known to have a max size as large as 24 inches in the wild! Some specimens living in massive environments can reach similar lengths in captivity, although this is pretty rare.
How to cure a fish with a disease?
If your fish contracts a disease, quarantine them to start treatment immediately. Use a Pleco-approved medication or utilize natural treatment methods to cure your fish.
What to feed plec?
A varied diet of veg+fruit is needed so that nutritional needs are fulfilled. Don't forget to include algae wafers, meat, and wood depending on species of plec.
What vegetables are good for plecs?
If you put in anything that contains the skin or rind be sure to scrub it first to get rid of any pesticides. this is a list of vegetables and fruit that are popular with most plecs. (Thank you to everyone on PF who voted in the veggie poll and all the input) Zucchini/Courgette. Cucumber.
Best Pleco Food Reviews of 2021
- Keep driftwood in the tank at all times. Your pleco needs lots of fiber in their diet, and they can get it from driftwood. Make sure to provide several pieces of driftwood in the aquarium at all times so your pleco can suck and scrape it off. The tiny pieces of driftwood the pleco eats help with its digestion.[1] X Research source Rather than collecting driftwood yourself, choose rea…
- Feed your pleco algae wafers. To ensure your pleco has enough algae in its diet, you should s…
What to Look For When Buying Pleco Food
Other Important Factors to Consider
- 1. Tetra Algae Wafers
Vegetable-fortified basic foods for all kinds of bottom-feeding fish like plecos are essential to consider because aside from meat, your finned buddies also need some plant-based foods for them to thrive. These foods are easy to digest and are known to contain generous amounts of fi… - 2. Hikari Tropical Algae Wafers Fish Food
If you want to provide your fish tank residents with foods that are enriched with nutrients, proteins, and other essential vitamins and minerals; this product can be one of your most excellent picks. These seem too big to be swallowed whole and a lot of omnivorous fish are so keen with these …
Frequently Asked Questions
- When searching for and purchasing the most appropriate foods for your plecos, before the final shopping decision; of course, there are some buying considerations that you need to carefully analyze and some of these consist of the following: 1. Does the product contain safe, well-balanced, and all-natural ingredients? Sure thing, fish can be sensitive if not fed with the right typ…
Conclusion
- What is the best food for pleco? A well-rounded diet for this fish species must comprise of sinking algae wafers and algae. And, it is necessary to supplement these with raw vegetables such as cucumbers and zucchini as a special treat at least once or twice per week. Please be guided that raw veggies must be anchored close by the underneath section of the tank. What do pleco eat? …