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November 24, 2009
Freshwater Fish
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Marble Sailfin Pleco, Albino
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Marble Sailfin Pleco, Albino
Veterinary & Aquatic Services Department, Drs. Foster & Smith, Inc.

The Albino Marble Sailfin Pleco, is a captive-bred species known by many scientific names, the most common being Glyptoperichthys gibbiceps. The Marble Sailfin Pleco is also known as the Spotted Sailfin Plecostomus. Originating from the Rio Pacaya in Peru, South America, the Marble Sailfin Pleco is a peaceful, bottom-dwelling member of the armour-plated catfish group.

A schooling fish, the Marble Sailfin Pleco does best in a large community tank of at least 125 gallons of water, although bigger is better. The Marble Sailfin Pleco will not grow if confined to a tank that is too small, and prefers large hiding places, driftwood, and/or dense vegetation. Despite its imposing size, up to 19.5 inches long, it gets along well even with much smaller fish. A great fish for beginners, this Pleco does produce large amounts of waste, requiring a set-up that includes a strong, large-volume filter.

Becoming active at dusk, this is the best time to feed. Herbivorous, the Marble Sailfin Pleco will not damage plants when provided with a diet rich in greens such as algae, Spirulina, sinking pellet foods, and detritus.

Ideal tank mates include: Angelfish, Discus, African Cichlids, South American Cichlids, Tetras, Barbs, Danios, Rasboras, Gouramis, Rainbowfish, Guppies, Platies, Mollies, Swordtails, Loaches, Plecos and Scavenger Catfish.

Fish Facts
Name: Marble Sailfin Pleco, Albino (Glyptoperichthys gibbiceps)
Family: Loricariidae
Range: Peru — Rio Pacaya
Size: Up to 19.5 inches
Diet: Herbivore
Tank Set-up: Freshwater: Densely planted
Tank Conditions: 73-81°F; pH 6.5-7.5; dH 4-20
Minimum Tank Capacity: 125 gallons
Light: Low
Temperament: Peaceful
Swimming Level: Bottom
Care Level: Easy
Reproduction: Egg Layer
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Picture(s): Courtesy of Drs. Foster and Smith |
Information provided courtesy of PetEducation.com

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