Pleco

Question
I have a plecostomus that seems to be outgrowing my tank. I am always afraid he is going to get stuck turning around in our tank. I had to guess the size of my tank because it was given to me by someone who didnt want it and they didnt know the size. I figure from how many trips I made with a water bucket it is somewhere between 48 - 50 gallons. How big a tank should I get so he is comfy?? The other fish in the tank are an assortment: 4 corydoras, 3 platies, 4 mollies,3 Rosie  barbs, 2 tetras, 1 rainbow fish, a couple of eel like fish,  a rainbow shark, a chinese algae eater and my pleco. also, Would it be easier to set up a small tank for holding purposes until I get the new tank cycled?? or should I leave them in this tank. Thanks so much for your time!

Answer
Carrie,
I am assuming we are talking about a common pleco. These guys can get as large as 2 feet, but more commonly 18 inches. Let's say he will get to be 18 inches. you would want a tank that is at least 22-23 inches wide. I might blow your mind, but the smallest tank I would put him in is 125 gallons. Stores should not sell these guys without telling their customers how big they get. If you are unable to get one that large, you can check to see if anyone has a pond that he can go in. If you take water and some of the filter media from the established tank and add it to the new tank, it will cut down on the cycle timing. I would leave him in the tank he is in while the other cycles, just make sure to keep the ends of the tank clear from decorations to help prevent him getting stuck.