Pterygoplichthys punctatus

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Doodles

Retired Staff
Apr 8, 2009
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Name: Pterygoplichthys punctatus

Common Names: Ranger pleco, Imperial Ranger Pleco

Location: South America: Madeira, Purus, Jurua and Marañon River basins.

Photos:
ranger4.jpgranger2.jpgranger1.jpg

Appearance:

Compatibility:
The Ranger Pleco has lots of character and is not really shy. Not a good companion with similar sized pleco's as an adult because most Pterygoplichthys can be territorial and especially around food.

Sexing and Breeding:
Males tend to have larger fins, inparticular the dorsal fin. Inspecting the genital papillae of adults is another way of sexing

Diet:
Whilst young a fairly good algae eater but need additional foods such as veggies and wafers as well. Adults need a varied diet consisting of veggies such as courgette, peas(deshelled), spinach, also would like some meatier foods such as prawn, bloodworms, brine shrimp once or twice a week.

Water parameters:
Temp 21-28c PH 6.0-7.8
Not too fussy about the PH- Anything between 6 and 7.8 should be fine. Also the same with the GH. Temp should be between 21c and 28c. Would like some cover provided as doesn't always like to be in the open. Plants aren't really suitable due to the size of this pleco, they can be a little clumsy and likely to uproot them. Sand can also be problematic as the plec is likely to unintentionally stir it up which can be damaging for filters.

Max Size: up to 30cms

Bred by:
Not reportedly bred in an aquarium due to large adult size

Additional Comments:
 
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