Fishing For Plecos

[Nick72]

So a friend of mine took his kids (4-7 years) to a local park this weekend, and did some hand net fishing in a stream.

I'm guessing this is a Common Pleco? But it's a marvellous looking fish.

He said it was catch and release as far too big for their little tank.

 

[Crispii]

Depending on where you live, common plecos can be an invasive species.

 

[Sheldon13]

Looks like a common. As mean as it sounds I would have disposed of it. They are invasive and ruining a lot of ecosystems.

 

[max h]

they sure have been tearing up canals down in South Florida. People release them when they get to big for their tanks.

 

[Nick72]

OK - I hear the environmental issue.

Still think it's a fantastic looking fish.

Too big for my 50g, but if I had a 200g I'd of considered adding it to my tank.

 

[pagoda]

Impressive wee beastie

Such a shame they have such a bad reputation cos they are real characters and very entertaining - if a little on the large size

 

[Mcasella]

They are interesting fish and all, but should not be left in wild where they aren't from. Good if you are keeping them contained and away from wild environments.
He is a nice looking common, will end up much larger.

 

[saltwater60]

I find invasive stuff in NYS all the time. That’s how I ended up with a red eared slider. It’s too bad. I also find tons of Japanese trapdoor snails. I found about 100 of them and added them to my pond. Saved me $350.

 

[jpm995]

Pretty sure they wont survive in a northern climate. I lost a blue eyed pleko that i outdoored in my outside pond in the summer. I forgot him and when i checked in November he was dead. I live on Long Island, New York.

 

[saltwater60]

Pretty sure they wont survive in a northern climate. I lost a blue eyed pleko that i outdoored in my outside pond in the summer. I forgot him and when i checked in November he was dead. I live on Long Island, New York.

Yes I’m aware of that. Just saying I find other invasive things that will survive frequently. It’s oretty sad actually.

 

[jpm995]

Yes I’m aware of that. Just saying I find other invasive things that will survive frequently. It’s oretty sad actually.

Agreed, plants are and even bigger problems than animals [imo] , have Japanese knotweed and many other invasive weeds in the backyard.

 

[Truckjohn]

They are reputed to be delicious.

If I caught one - I would eat it.

 

[saltwater60]

You all should read up about the spotted lantern fly. If people thought the emerald ash boarer was bad the lantern flu is not as picky with trees and will destroy many varieties of trees in the USA. Sad state of affairs thanks to global trade.