Calico super red pleco (3 pcs)

Calico Super Red Pleco is a striking freshwater algae-grazing catfish, usually a selectively bred form of Bristlenose Pleco. It combines orange/red coloration with calico marbling or patchy patterns, making it very popular in planted and community aquariums.

Quick Overview

• Type: Freshwater bottom-dwelling catfish
• Genus: Ancistrus
• Common group: Bristlenose pleco
• Size: 10–15 cm (4–6 in)
• Lifespan: 5–10 years
• Temperament: Peaceful, hardy

Appearance

• Red/orange base color
• Calico patches, marbling, or mottled pattern
• Flattened body with armor plates
• Sucker mouth for grazing surfaces
• Adult males develop facial bristles

Tank Requirements

• Tank size: 75 liters (20+ gallons) minimum
• Temperature: 23–28°C
• pH: 6.5–7.5
• Water: Clean, oxygen-rich
• Flow: Mild to moderate
• Décor: Driftwood, caves, rocks, plants

Behavior

• Mostly peaceful
• Active especially at dusk/night
• Territorial with other bottom fish in small tanks
• Good solo specimen or pair in adequate space

Feeding

Primarily omnivorous grazer:

• Algae wafers
• Sinking pellets
• Blanched zucchini, cucumber, spinach
• Occasional protein foods

Important Care Tip

Do not rely on algae alone. Plecos need regular feeding even in planted tanks.

Good Tank Mates

• Tetras
• Rasboras
• Gouramis
• Rainbowfish
• Peaceful cichlids (with enough space)

Breeding

Relatively easy compared with many plecos:

• Needs cave spawning site
• Male guards eggs
• Warm, clean water helps trigger spawning