I purchased a bristlenose pleco last week for algae control, and I can honestly say it is one of the most interesting fish I have ever owned. First off, it spends a considerable amount of time each day battling the bubbles emitted by the sponge filter, which I find highly entertaining. From researching on this subreddit, I’ve learned that this behavior is common among plecos, as they naturally inhabit environments with strong currents. In most aquariums, a sponge filter is the closest equivalent to that.
Before researching which pleco would be best for my aquarium, I had no idea there were so many varieties. I had always assumed that the common pleco—the kind you often see in doctor’s office goldfish tanks—was the only species available. My bristlenose pleco has proven to be extremely effective at cleaning the tank glass, almost completely eliminating algae within just a few days of being introduced.
I am considering getting another, smaller plecostomus variety, especially since this species doesn’t grow particularly large. However, my tank is only 55 gallons, and research suggests that plecos produce a significant amount of waste. I’m concerned that adding another could negatively impact my water parameters. Is this a valid concern?
Additionally, I’m worried about potential aggression. I’ve read that some plecos can be territorial, not only toward other plecos but also toward fish that vaguely resemble them, such as hillstream loaches. Is this something I need to be concerned about?
Posted by dragon-elbow-coal