Basilisk Pleco
NameBasilisk Pleco
Scientific NamePterygoplichthys scrophus
Common NamesBasilisk Pleco, L090 Pleco, Scrophus Pleco
FamilyLoricariidae
OriginSouth America, Amazon Basin, Peru, Brazil
Temperamentcommunity
Dietomnivore
Care Levelintermediate
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)180
Max Size (Inches)24
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)72-82
pH Range6.5-7.5
Compatible SpeciesLarge Tetras, Large Cichlids (e.g., Oscar, Severum), Large Gouramis, Other large, peaceful catfish (non-pleco), Arowana
Description
The Basilisk Pleco is a large, armored catfish native to the Amazon Basin, known for its distinctive bony plates and impressive size. It is a bottom-dwelling species that primarily feeds on algae and detritus, making it a useful tank cleaner. While generally peaceful, it can be territorial with other bottom-dwellers, especially as it matures.
