The fish known as old water (Hypostomus plecostomus) is a peculiar species within the family LoricaridaeIts unique appearance is due to the bone plates covering its body, giving it an armored appearance. It is also known by other names such as old black woman, old tail, algae sucker y pool cleanerIts function in the aquatic ecosystem and in aquariums is key, since it helps to keep the algae growth on glass and surfaces.
Physical characteristics
La coloration of the old water varies between different shades of brown and black, allowing it to camouflage itself in its natural environment. Its body is covered by large bony plates which give them additional protection against predators.
Among its most outstanding features are:
- Dorsal fin: very pronounced and with spiny rays.
- Glue: of considerable size, which helps it move around.
- Ventral fin: larger than the anal fin, used to adhere to surfaces.
- Suction cup shaped mouth: ideal for scraping algae and adhering to rock surfaces and glass.
Habitat and behavior
This fish is native to rivers and streams in Latin America, found in countries such as Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, Colombia and Venezuela. It is a species background, which means that it spends most of its time in the lower part of the waterbed.
The old water is mainly Night; during the day, it remains motionless or sheltered in rocks and trunks, coming out at night to feed. It has a behaviour territorial, especially with other bottom fish, showing aggression if it feels threatened.
Diet and feeding
The diet of this fish is omnivoreIn its natural habitat, it feeds on:
- Aquatic microorganisms
- Small fish like mojarras and catfish
- Shads and boguitas
- Organic sludge, from which it obtains nutrients
- Algae and plant remains
In aquariums, their diet can be supplemented with bottom pills, Spirulina flakes y vegetables such as zucchini or spinach.
Importance in aquariums
In the world of aquaristics, the old water is highly valued due to its function of algae cleaning, as it helps keep glass and decorations free from overgrowth of these. However, it is essential to have a sufficiently large aquarium, since It can reach between 15 and 40 cm, and even up to the 70 cm in its natural habitat.
Reproduction
The reproduction of the old water is very peculiar. The male carries the fertilized eggs in a cavity under its lower jaw until the fry emerge. During this process, the fish is extremely protector, even displaying aggressive behavior if it perceives threats.
In aquariums, breeding this species can be complicated, as it requires specific conditions such as warm waters and a high protein diet.
Aquarium care
If you want to keep a water damselfly in your aquarium, you must make sure to provide it with a suitable environment:
- Large aquarium: minimum 100 liters for young specimens.
- Water temperature: between 24 and 30 ºC.
- pH: between 6.5 and 7.5.
- Decoration with logs and rocks:where he can hide.
- efficient filtration: to keep the water in optimal conditions.
This fish is an excellent choice for maintaining a balanced aquatic ecosystem. However, it is important to consider its size before introducing it into an aquarium, as it needs space and specific care to fully develop.