2) To have a gorgeous tank that has a thriving ecosystem with fish who coexist with each other

3) Learn how to properly care for a tank and take care of my fish, and too never let my aquarium lack in care

Common name: Pleco, sucker mouth catfish, suckerfish, janitor fish and Armor-plated catfish

Scientific Name: Hypostomus plecostomus

Description: The plecostomus are characterized by heavy armored plates on their bodies and sucker-shaped mouths, hence why sometimes being called armor-plated catfish. The common pleco fish can be black and brown and eats algae. Most pleco species are native to South America, they usually live in fast moving shallow streams and rivers. Although they eat algae it doesn't mean they don't have to be fed, they should be fed once or twice week, Aqueon Bottom Feeder Tablets, Shrimp Pellets, Tropical Granules and Algae Rounds can all be excellent foods for these catfish. Depending on the species the Plecostomus can grown over 12 inches and can live up to 10-15 years. Pleco mating behavior generally involves the male selecting a cave and displaying territorial behavior to attract a female. Once a female is interested, she will enter the male's cave, where he may trap her while she lays eggs. The male then fertilizes the eggs and becomes the primary caregiver, guarding and fanning the eggs until they hatch.

2) Some fish the Plecostomus can get along with are:

a) Bettas (females)

b) Guppies

c) Mollies

• In their natural habitat they usually have places to hide. They are bottom feeders and usually live in warm, moderate to fast-moving waters that have driftwood and algae covered surfaces. Plecos live in a pH between 7.0 and 8.0. They usually have a wide abundance of space in their natural habitat. Plecos need natural hiding places, in their natural environment the river bottoms have branches and logs that they hide in during the day since they are nocturnal.

• Cost - $13-30

• Keeps any substrate bed under 1.5-2 inches

Tank Size - Plecos can vary in size with some growing more than 12 inches, so its best to choose tank size based on your plecos species. Ex. Common Pleco 150 gallon tank, Bristlenose Pleco 20 gallon tank, Clow Pleco 20-50 gallon tank.

Heater - Its best to get a good durable heater, like Eheim Jager, which costs up to $40

Air - Plecos usually use their gills for air but can breath atmospheric air.

• If they continuously go up for air that might be a sign of of low oxygen in the tank

Bristlenose pleco breeding behavior - Fish Breeding - Aquarium Co-Op Forum

Beginner’s Guide to Plecos: Care, Feeding & Setup

The Ultimate Guide to Caring for Plecostomus: Ideal Aquarium Setup and Care Tips – J&M Aquatics and Pet Center

Plecostomus and Lighting | Lighting Forum

Ultimate Care Guide for Pleco Fish – Splashy Fish