Albino Common Pleco: The Nocturnal Algae Eater with a Unique Look
Hypostomus plecostomus (Albino Variant)

The Albino Common Pleco is a visually striking and highly effective algae eater that stands out in any freshwater aquarium. With its pale cream-to-golden body, red eyes, and armored appearance, this variant of the Common Plecostomus is both functional and fascinating. Perfect for aquarists looking for a hardy, low-maintenance bottom dweller, the Albino Pleco is a classic addition to larger tanks.

A Unique Twist on a Classic Cleaner

The Albino Common Pleco is a selectively bred version of the standard Hypostomus plecostomus, a species native to the slow-moving rivers and floodplains of South America. While its wild-type counterpart is dark brown or black with mottled patterns, the albino variant exhibits a soft yellowish coloration and characteristic red eyes due to the absence of melanin.

This fish is known for its algae-eating abilities and armored body, which help it thrive in a wide range of tank conditions.

Behavior & Temperament

Albino Plecos are generally peaceful and solitary. They spend most of their time grazing on algae, clinging to glass, rocks, driftwood, or other surfaces using their specialized suckermouth. Although active primarily at night, they can often be seen during the day, especially during feeding.

While not aggressive, they may become territorial with other bottom-dwellers, especially other plecos, if the tank doesn’t offer enough hiding spaces.

Tank Requirements

Because Albino Common Plecos can grow to be quite large, they need plenty of space to thrive. Though commonly sold as juveniles just a few inches long, they can reach well over a foot in length in the right conditions.

Recommended Setup:

• Tank Size: 75 gallons or more

• Temperature: 72–82°F (22–28°C)

• pH: 6.5–7.5

• Substrate: Sand or smooth gravel

• Decor: Driftwood (for grazing and hiding), caves, rocks, and shaded areas

• Lighting: Moderate to low, with some hiding places to retreat during the day

• Filtration: Strong—these fish are messy and produce a lot of waste

Diet & Feeding

Although known as algae eaters, Albino Plecos require more than just the algae in your tank to stay healthy. They are omnivorous scavengers, and a well-rounded diet will help support their immune system and coloration.

Feed them:

• Algae wafers and sinking pellets

• Blanched vegetables (zucchini, cucumber, spinach)

• Occasional protein (bloodworms, shrimp pellets)

• Driftwood for digestion (especially important for wood-eating species like some plecos)

Compatibility

Albino Plecos do well in community tanks with peaceful to semi-aggressive fish, as long as there’s enough space and hiding spots. Avoid housing them with other large plecos unless the tank is very spacious, as they may compete for territory.

Compatible tank mates include:

• Angelfish

• Gouramis

• Tetras (larger varieties)

• Cichlids (non-aggressive species)

• Loaches and larger livebearers

Lifespan & Care

With proper care, Albino Common Plecos can live 10–15 years or more. Key to their longevity is clean water, a varied diet, and enough room to grow and explore.