Black-spotted Pleco
NameBlack-spotted Pleco
Scientific NameHypostomus nigromaculatus
Common NamesBlack-spotted Pleco, Spotted Pleco, Armored Catfish
FamilyLoricariidae
OriginSouth America, Paraná River Basin, Brazil, Paraguay, Argentina
Temperamentcommunity
Dietomnivore
Care Levelintermediate
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)75
Max Size (Inches)16
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)72-80
pH Range6.5-7.5
Compatible SpeciesLarger Tetras, Rasboras, Gouramis, Angelfish, Discus, Corydoras Catfish, Robust Barbs, Other peaceful, similarly sized community fish
Description
The Black-spotted Pleco (*Hypostomus nigromaculatus*) is a large, armored catfish native to the Paraná River basin in South America. Known for its dark spots on a lighter brown body, it is a diligent algae eater that requires a spacious aquarium with plenty of hiding spots and driftwood. This species can grow quite large, making it suitable for intermediate aquarists with appropriately sized tanks.
