Fin's Fish Guide
The Plec (Hemiancistrus medians) is a freshwater fish of the family Loricariidae that grows up to 39 cm.
Description
The rapids plec is an armoured catfish (Loricariidae) from northern South America. The species has a flattened body armoured with bony plates and an inferior sucker mouth. It lives in the strongest jets of rapids, where the bottom consists of large, smooth boulders and the current is very strong; with its sucker mouth it holds on against the flow. With that mouth it rasps algae and growth from the rocks. The stout pectoral fin spines and rough armour can give a puncture wound when handled.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Plec?
The Plec has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Holds on with a sucker mouth in the strongest rapids; armoured algae rasper.
Where does the Plec live?
The Plec lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Northern South America; powerful rapids with boulders.
How big does the Plec get?
The Plec grows to a maximum of about 39 cm.
Is the Plec dangerous to humans?
No, the Plec is harmless to humans. Not venomous, but the stout pectoral and dorsal fin spines can inflict a painful puncture wound when handled. Clean the wound thoroughly and seek medical care if it becomes infected.
Is the Plec edible?
The Plec is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Hemiancistrus
More from the family Loricariidae
Want the complete picture on the Plec?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Plec is one of 12,519 species in the app.