Tiger Pleco (Peckoltia vittata)

Tiger Plecos (Peckoltia vittata) carry a bold golden-yellow and black striped pattern that stands out even in the naturally camouflaged world of Loricariidae catfish, and they put the actual structure of that camouflage to use as a dedicated algae and biofilm grazer, rasping away at glass, driftwood, and rock surfaces with a sucker-like mouth built for exactly that job.

They stay considerably more modest in size than a Common Pleco — typically 4–5 inches at full adult size — which makes them a genuinely practical algae-control option for a mid-sized planted or community tank rather than something that will eventually need relocating to a larger setup. They're peaceful toward other species, most active after lights-out, and will often claim a specific cave or driftwood overhang as a personal territory to return to.

Driftwood is important with this genus specifically, not just as décor: many Peckoltia and related loricariids rasp on wood as a functional part of their digestion, not just incidentally. A tank without driftwood leaves them missing a component of their natural dietary fiber. Supplement their grazing with algae wafers, blanched zucchini, and other vegetables.

Scientific name: Peckoltia vittata
Origin: Amazon River basin, South America — fast-flowing rocky tributaries with wood and leaf-litter accumulation
Water parameters: Temp 72–82°F · pH 5.5–7.5 · GH 2–15 (soft to moderately hard)
Tank requirements: 30 gal minimum; provide driftwood and caves; appreciate structured flow
Diet: Herbivore/omnivore — algae wafers, blanched vegetables, driftwood for rasping; occasional protein
Compatibility: Peaceful with community fish; territorial toward own species in limited space
Husbandry note: Tiger Plecos are largely nocturnal and will spend daylight hours hidden in a cave or behind driftwood — this is normal, not a sign of illness. If yours is visible and active during the day, it's usually because it's hungry and actively searching for food. More food and more structure usually resolves it.