Unlike plecostomus that can quickly outgrow most aquariums, the Pitbull Pleco remains relatively small throughout its life. Despite its smaller stature, this member of the Loricariidae family is a master at keeping your aquarium clean. Due to the abundance of stock available in the catfish category, it has become very difficult to categorize them by species. As a result, you may see a reference to the letter "L" for the family Loricariidae, followed by a number. The Pitbull Pleco is referred to as LDA 25 by most hobbyists. In addition, these highly active fish prefer to be kept in small groups within larger community aquariums, which adds to the fun of watching them scavenge and clean your substrate. However, avoid keeping it with larger, aggressive fish that might see the Pitbull Pleco as food.

Native to Brazil, the Pitbull Pleco does well singly in 20 gallon aquariums. However, small groups of these peaceful fish are best kept in aquariums of 30 gallons or more. They prefer soft sand substrate, since they will bury themselves in hiding if frightened. They also accept gravel-based substrates provided they have ample locations to hide among aquarium plants, decorations, driftwood, or rock coves. If housed in gravel-based aquariums, choose rounder gravel since the Pitbull Pleco "rolls" gravel between its suckers to clean away algae and debris.

Males are distinguished from females by their longer pelvic fins. Since they are a relatively new addition to the freshwater aquarium hobby, more research needs to be completed on their breeding cycle. However, Pitbull Plecos seem to breed in a similar fashion to Corydoras, spawning their eggs in small clusters on plant leaves or grass stalks.

Classified as herbivores, the Pitbull Pleco's main diet is aquarium algae. However, they also will accept algae wafers, spirulina tabs, and the remnants of flake food that make their way to the aquarium floor. On occasion this fish has also eaten small quantities of bloodworms; however, these should be offered only on occasion and not be a large percentage of your fish's diet.

Approximate Purchase Size: 2" - 3"