Fin's Fish Guide
The Pearl pleco (Hypostomus margaritifer) is a freshwater fish of the family Loricariidae that grows up to 40 cm.
Description
The pearl pleco is a suckermouth catfish from fresh water of southeastern Brazil. The species grows to about 40 cm and has an elongate body covered with bony plates studded with shiny, pearl-like pale spots, and a fleshy sucker mouth. As a bottom-dweller it clings to wood and stones in rivers and grazes algae, aufwuchs and detritus; it can breathe air with its gut. The fish appears in the aquarium hobby. The IUCN has not evaluated the species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Pearl pleco?
The Pearl pleco has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Pearly pale spots and a sucker mouth; algae-grazing armoured catfish
Where does the Pearl pleco live?
The Pearl pleco lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Southeastern Brazil
How big does the Pearl pleco get?
The Pearl pleco grows to a maximum of about 40 cm.
Is the Pearl pleco dangerous to humans?
No, the Pearl pleco 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 Pearl pleco edible?
The Pearl pleco is not usually eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Pearl pleco?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Pearl pleco is one of 12,519 species in the app.
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 Pearl pleco?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Pearl pleco is one of 12,519 species in the app.