Plec

Question
QUESTION: Hi

I bought a plec a week ago. I was told they are hardy, friendly towards other fish and only grow to the size of the tank. I had recently bought a few plants and was having an algae problem and was told they are great for getting rid of it.

However, I have done some of my own research and I've read when they grow bigger they eat other fish. I'd love to know what the facts were about this beautiful fish. Thank you for your time.

ANSWER: Hi Charlotte, Yes these fish are great for algae problems but if your tank starts to run out of algae feed him algae wafers that you can purchase at your pet store. I have about a 5 inch one in my community molly and plattie tank and there are 2 month old fry in there and he loves them to death. Usually they will not eat smaller fish they have suckers for mouths and can usually only suck algae with it. This is a myth that they will eat smaller fish. Good Luck!

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QUESTION: Thank you for your help. Is it true they grow to the size of the tank? How fast do they grow? Mine is 2 and 1/4 inches. Will I need to buy a bigger tank for him soon? Thanks for your help.

Answer
Hi Charlotte, Yes they do usually grow to the size of your tank but they do need at least a 10 gallon tank if they are by themselves but it sounds like you have some other fish so I would at least have a 10 or 20 gallon tank. He will start noticeably growing if you have a lot of algae for him to feed off of.Good Luck