Fin's Fish Guide
The Spoontooth pleco (Hypostomus hemicochliodon) is a freshwater fish of the family Loricariidae that grows up to 36 cm.
Description
The Spoontooth pleco is a large armoured catfish (Loricariidae) from fresh water of the Amazon basin in South America. The species grows to about 25 cm and has a bony-plated, brown-marbled body and an inferior sucker mouth with which it clings to wood and stones. As a nocturnal bottom-dweller it rasps algae, biofilm and wood and searches for detritus and small invertebrates. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Spoontooth pleco?
The Spoontooth pleco has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern.
Where does the Spoontooth pleco live?
The Spoontooth pleco lives in fresh water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. South America: Brazil, Ecuador, Venezuela
How big does the Spoontooth pleco get?
The Spoontooth pleco grows to a maximum of about 36 cm.
Is the Spoontooth pleco dangerous to humans?
No, the Spoontooth 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.
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 Spoontooth pleco?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Spoontooth pleco is one of 12,519 species in the app.