Amazon Fish Encyclopedia
The Unique
Plecostomus
Amazon
Fish Species Guide
Species Fact Sheet
Amazon Plecostomus Information
The Amazon Plecostomus, also known as Bodo (Boh-Doh) is a hardy and adaptable armored catfish, known for its distinctive suckermouth and ability to survive in various water conditions. These nocturnal cleaners play a vital role in their ecosystem by consuming algae and detritus, helping to maintain water quality. Their unique ability to breathe air allows them to survive in low-oxygen environments, making them incredibly resilient.
Catch Distribution
The estimated potential yield for Plecostomus is approximately 1,400 tons, with the majority of the catch coming from three key fishery regions. The Lower Amazon accounts for 40%, followed by the Peruvian Amazon at 30% and the Central Amazon at 23%, collectively representing 93% of the total yield. The Tocantins region has a more moderate Plecostomus potential yield of 5%.
Natural History
The Plecostomus fish group, which includes various genera and species of the armored catfish family Loricariidae, is an important component of commercial fisheries. The primary species targeted are Pterygoplichthys pardalis, with Hypostomus emarginatus playing a secondary role. These fish are sedentary and thrive in várzea lakes of whitewater rivers. Their diet consists mainly of detritus and algae, which they scrape or rasp from the bottom substrate. Pterygoplichthys pardalis spawns once per year, digging holes in lake banks for nesting, and males take on the role of parental care.
Habitat & Distribution
Distribution of Plecostomus catch. Source: Barthem, R., Goulding, M. 2007. An unexpected ecosystem: the Amazon as revealed by fisheries. Missouri Botanical Garden Press.
Plecos are widely distributed throughout the Amazon River system. These adaptable fish thrive in various environments, from pristine waters to urban areas, thanks to their ability to survive in low-oxygen conditions. They are primarily nocturnal, using their specialized mouths to cling to surfaces while feeding.
- • Rocky or muddy bottoms
- • Rich in algae growth
- • Adequate oxygen levels
- • Driftwood and logs
- • Dense vegetation
- • Rocky outcroppings
- • Most active at night
- • Uses suckermouth to grip
- • Efficient night feeding
Behavior & Diet
Plecos are detritivores, primarily consuming organic matter and algae. They use their specialized suckermouth to cling to surfaces while feeding, and are most active during nighttime hours. Their ability to breathe air allows them to survive in low-oxygen environments.
- • Primary food source
- • Scraped from surfaces
- • Rich in nutrients
- • Decaying vegetation
- • Aquatic plants
- • Organic detritus
- • Invertebrates
- • Fish eggs
- • Carrion
- • Burrows in dry season
- • Can breathe air
- • Adapts to conditions
Most active at night, using their specialized suckermouth to graze on algae and biofilm while clinging to submerged surfaces.
Fishing Techniques & Best Practices
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While Plecos are not typically targeted by anglers, they can be caught using various bottom-fishing methods. Their sharp spines require careful handling, and protective gloves are recommended when landing them.
Best Techniques
- Bottom Fishing: Using dough baits or vegetables
- Cast Netting: Most common method for capture
- Hand-Lining: Effective in shallow, muddy waters
Recommended Gear
- Rod: Medium to heavy spinning rod (10-20 lb test)
- Reel: Low-ratio reel with strong drag
- Line: Fluorocarbon or braided (15-30 lb test)
- Hooks: Small (#4 to #8) or treble hooks
Conservation & Sustainability
While Plecos are abundant in their native Amazon habitat, they have become a significant concern as invasive species in many regions. Their hardiness and adaptability have allowed them to establish populations in Florida, Texas, and Southeast Asia, where they can impact local ecosystems.
Sustainable Management Practices
Never release non-native Plecos back into water
Can be used as bait for predator fish
Support natural populations in Amazon basin
Help manage populations in non-native areas
Cultural Significance & Fun Facts
Aquarium Favorite
Popular in home aquariums for their algae-eating abilities, though they often outgrow their tanks as they mature.
Traditional Uses
Their armor plates are used as tools and decorations by some Amazon communities, and they're eaten in parts of Mexico and Central America.
Survival Skills
Can survive extended periods out of water, allowing them to colonize new environments and adapt to challenging conditions.
Adaptable Species
Their hardy nature and ability to thrive in various conditions has led to successful populations worldwide, though often as invasive species.
