The Plecostomus makes a great addition to any tank. Besides its exotic appearance, a Plecostomus will help to maintain the ecology of an aquarium, by eating the algae that grows in it. For this reason, the Plecostomus is highly desired by experienced and beginning aquarists alike.

Plecostomus are a good community fish. They are peaceful, non-aggressive, and will not bother most other fish. However, the Plecostomus may suck on larger fish, such as Goldfish and Plecos. Plecostomus should be kept in large aquariums with heavy rock and plant decoration. The Plecostomus is nocturnal, and should have plenty of places to hide during the day.

Plecostomus are large, dark fish. Their bodies are long and club shaped. The bottom of their body is flat, as they are mostly bottom feeders. Their body color is usually black to dark green, with varying spots. Plecostomus have large fins, and the front rays have hard, sharp spines. At maturity, the Plecostomus will reach a size of 18 to 24 inches. Although it is difficult to distinguish between the male and female Plecostomus, it has been reported that there is a difference in the top fin between the sexes. When the top fin is extended, the female's fin is usually flatter, rounder, smaller, narrower and less spiky than that of the male.

The Plecostomus, or Hypostomus plecostomus is originally from Southern Brazil.

The Plecostomus is a hardy fish. It requires little attention. It will eat algae that grow in its tank. However, the Plecostomus will most likely consume all of the algae before it can replenish. Because of this, additional foods should be fed to the Plecostomus, including spinach, zucchini, peas, and lettuce. Algae wafers, shrimp pellets and tablets will also be accepted. Their water should be between 72 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit, and should have a pH level from six to eight.

There are no reports of captive bred Plecostomus.