Fin's Fish Guide
The Commerson's plec (Hypostomus commersoni) is a freshwater fish of the family Loricariidae that grows up to 61 cm.
Description
Commerson's plec is a large suckermouth catfish from fresh water of southeastern South America, including the La Plata basin. The species grows to about 60 cm and has an elongate body covered with bony plates and a fleshy sucker mouth on the underside. As a bottom-dweller it clings to stones and wood in rivers and grazes algae, aufwuchs and detritus; it can breathe air with its gut. It is a local food fish. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Commerson's plec?
The Commerson's plec has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Bony armour plates and a sucker mouth; algae-grazing armoured catfish with intestinal respiration
Where does the Commerson's plec live?
The Commerson's plec lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Southeastern South America
How big does the Commerson's plec get?
The Commerson's plec grows to a maximum of about 61 cm.
Is the Commerson's plec dangerous to humans?
No, the Commerson's plec is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Commerson's plec edible?
Yes, the Commerson's plec is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Hypostomus
More from the family Loricariidae
Want the complete picture on the Commerson's plec?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Commerson's plec is one of 12,519 species in the app.