Not furry, but we like them anyway.
Leopard Sailfin Pleco
Pterygoplichthys pardalis (Castelnau, 1855)
Also called Amazon sailfin catfish, Leopard pleco, Common pleco (trade name), Chocolate pleco (amelanistic form), Janitor fish
From Lower, middle and upper Amazon River basin in Brazil and Peru.12
At a glance the quick version
Looks how to spot one
Armoured suckermouth catfish (bony scutes)
A large sailfin pleco with a broad, high dorsal fin carrying many rays (11 to 13), which separates it from Hypostomus plecos. Its armoured body is covered in leopard-like dark spots, and the trade also offers albino and pale 'chocolate' forms.2
Personality what they are like
A calm, bottom-living grazer that spends its time on wood, rocks and the substrate. Like its relatives it is most active around dusk and night.23
Daily activity how busy a day looks
Needs lots of floor space; in nature members of its genus dig burrows into riverbanks.24
Grooming and care the hands-on bits
Heavy feeder, so it needs powerful filtration and regular water changes, plus an aquarium sized for a fish that can pass 40 cm. Never release one into the wild.21
Home where they are happiest
Tropical water around 23 to 28 C, pH about 7.0 to 7.5 and moderately hard (10 to 20 dH), with driftwood and large caves.12
Food basics what goes in the bowl
Grazes on algae and detritus and picks at small bottom-living organisms; in aquariums, algae wafers and vegetables with some protein foods suit it.41
The story where it all began
Francis de Castelnau described this species in 1855 from the Amazon. It became a mainstay of the aquarium trade, where it is often sold under the general name 'common pleco' alongside Hypostomus plecostomus.21
Fun facts for the dinner table
- 1
It is a facultative air-breather and can take air at the surface during dry spells or low-oxygen periods.2
- 2
Counting the dorsal fin rays tells it apart from Hypostomus plecos: 11 to 13 rays versus 5 to 8.2
- 3
Males of its genus dig tunnels into riverbanks where a female lays her eggs.4
- 4
An amelanistic colour form is sold in the hobby as the 'chocolate pleco'.2
Recognised by the official bits
- IUCN Red List
- Least Concern (assessed 25 November 2020)1
- Taxonomy
- Described by Castelnau in 1855; family Loricariidae1
The care rhythm a typical week and year
A typical home-care rhythm for a Leopard Sailfin Pleco. A starting point, not a vet's advice.
- Feedingevery day
- Water changeAbout 30 to 50% of the waterevery week
- Water testevery week
- Filter rinseevery 2 weeks
Owner questions the things everyone asks
How often should I feed my Leopard Sailfin Pleco?
Feed your Leopard Sailfin Pleco daily, as it is a heavy feeder that grazes throughout the day. Furry Diary's starting plan suggests feeding once every day. Adjust portions based on your fish's appetite and the food label, and check with your vet if unsure.24 Pet Wiki plan
What does a Leopard Sailfin Pleco eat, and what should it never eat?
It grazes on algae and detritus, and in aquariums it enjoys algae wafers, vegetables, and some protein foods. Never feed it foods high in fat or artificial additives, and avoid overfeeding to prevent water quality issues. For specific amounts, follow the food label and ask your vet.41
How much space does a Leopard Sailfin Pleco need?
This fish can grow over 40 cm and needs lots of floor space, so a large aquarium is essential. A tank of at least 120 cm in length is recommended to give it room to dig and graze. Always plan for its adult size.24
What temperature, light or water does a Leopard Sailfin Pleco need?
Keep tropical water at 23 to 28°C, pH around 7.0 to 7.5, and moderately hard (10 to 20 dH). Provide driftwood and large caves for hiding, and moderate lighting. Test water weekly to maintain these conditions.12 Pet Wiki plan
How often should I clean a Leopard Sailfin Pleco's home?
Perform a 30 to 50% water change every week, as suggested by Furry Diary's plan. Rinse the filter every two weeks and test water weekly to keep the environment clean. Heavy feeding means powerful filtration is needed.21 Pet Wiki plan
Can a Leopard Sailfin Pleco live with others?
Yes, it is a calm bottom-dweller that can live with peaceful tank mates, but avoid aggressive fish. It is most active at dusk and night, so choose companions that won't disturb it. Always research compatibility with a good breeder or vet.23
How long does a Leopard Sailfin Pleco live?
With proper care, this pleco can live for many years, often over a decade. Its lifespan depends on tank size, diet, and water quality. For exact longevity, ask a vet or experienced breeder.2
Can I handle a Leopard Sailfin Pleco?
It is best not to handle this fish, as it has bony scutes and can be stressed by touch. Use a net only when necessary, and never take it out of water for long. Handling is not recommended for its well-being.2
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
You might also like
Sailfin Pleco
Common PlecoWhere this comes from
Every fact on this page has a numbered source. Spotted an error? [email protected].
- FishBase: Pterygoplichthys pardalis fishbase.seused for distribution, size, weight, water parameters, IUCN
- Wikipedia: Pterygoplichthys pardalis en.wikipedia.orgused for names, size, weight, colour forms, identification, air breathing, history
- Wikipedia: Pterygoplichthys gibbiceps en.wikipedia.orgused for nocturnal habits of the genus
- USGS NAS: Pterygoplichthys multiradiatus fact sheet (genus notes) nas.er.usgs.govused for genus burrowing and breeding behaviour, diet
Checked 2026-09-30. Text is written in our own words from these sources.