pleco growth.

Question
how long do regular plecos grow and how long do they live? would a 55 gallon tank be large enough to care for them? i know they can get big but wanted to know how much.

Answer
plecos can get well over 12" and should be kept in a 75 gallon or larger tank.  A 55 gallon is only 13" wide which makes it difficult for a 12" + fish to turn around.  They can reach their full size within a couple of years if given the correct environment and good food.  If kept in a small tank too long, they can stunt which will kill them.  They can live 10-15 years.  One thing you should know is that as they get larger they can get somewhat aggressive and they stop eating algae and will need fresh veggies and alage pellets