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How to Make Homemade Pleco Caves

Plecostomus fish, or plecos for short, are popular additions to large freshwater aquariums, owing to their preferred diet of algae that makes them natural born cleaners of the tanks in which they are placed. When introduced into an aquarium, plecos will often seek out a permanent resting place where they can spend the bulk of their time in safety, and which will eventually serve as a safe nesting spot for their eggs. You can provide this shelter for the plecos in your aquarium with objects commonly found in home and garden stores.

Things You'll Need

Angle grinder
New 4-inch flowerpot
Towel
Protective eyewear
Protective face mask
Aquarium-safe silicon

Instructions

- 1
  Cut an opening that is slightly larger than the total size of your adult plecos from the rim of the flower pot down towards the center of its surface with your angle grinder. Be sure to wear protective eyewear and a face mask to protect yourself from harmful chips of the pot.
- 2
  Remove all of the dust and particulates from the edges of your opening with a damp towel.
- 3
  Apply a layer of the silicon around the edges of the opening to smooth them and prevent your plecos from being injured when entering the pot. Allow the resin to dry overnight.
- 4
  Place the pot into your aquarium upside-down, flush against the bottom of the tank, providing a cave-like structure. Leave it there and allow your plecos to explore the new dwelling.

Animals & Science