Species Profile
Sailfin pleco - Glyptoperichthys gibbiceps
Maximum size (min-max): 45-50 cm ( 17.72-19.69 in )
pH:
6.0 - 8.0
Water hardness (dGH):
4—18 °N
Recommended temperature: 23 - 30 °C
Compatibility (family):
peaceful
Compatibility (other):
peaceful
Place in the aquarium:
Bottom levels
Breeding method:
Spawning
Place of origin:
South America (where it is an important food fish)
Short description
The Leopard sail fin pleco was scientifically
described by Kner in 1845 and given the name
Ancistrus gibbiceps. The species was moved to the
genus Pterygoplichthy in 1980 and then to the
genus Glyptoperichthys in 2003. It has the
designated L-numbers L083 and L165.
The sailfin pleco has one pair of barbells on each
side of the mouth. The barbells are not very big. The
pectoral fins are big and almost reach the middle
pelvic fins. The dorsal fin is really big, and this is
why this fish is called sailfin. This treat is even more
noticeable in juvenile specimens.
The base colour is black to golden brown. On this base, cream coloured lines form an irregular pattern which
has given the fish its common name. The pattern is present on both body and fins and the markings are
bigger on the body and smaller on the head. Small fishes tend to have spotted markings while big fishes
normally have reticulated markings.
The body colouration and pattern changes as the fish grow older. In really old specimens, it is common for
the patter to disappear completely.
It is important to provide sailfin plecos with a varied and nutritious diet.
Ideally combine large amounts of vegetable based food with smaller
servings of meaty food. Sailfin plecos are known to appreciate algae
based prepared foods and vegetables such as lettuce, kale, spinach and
green peas. Small specimens can be given shrimpmix while large
specimens have no problem devouring whole shrimps and prawns. The
sailfin pleco needs driftwood in the aquarium, since it needs to rasp
wood in order to stay healthy.
Make sure that the sailfin plecos actually eat; sometimes faster fishes in
the aquarium gulp down all the food before the plecos get a chance to
find it. A sailfin pleco with a hollow stomach is starving.