What is janitor fish?

Janitor fish, also known as suckerfish or plecostomus, are a species of freshwater catfish found in tropical regions of South America. They are known for their ability to clean algae and debris from aquariums by sucking onto surfaces with their mouths.

Janitor fish typically have a flat and elongated body with a large mouth and suckermouth. They are often a dark color with various patterns and markings, and some species have spines on their bodies for defense.

These fish are omnivorous and feed on algae, detritus, and small invertebrates. They are known to be hardy and can adapt to a wide range of water conditions, making them popular choices for aquarium enthusiasts.

In their natural habitat, janitor fish are an important part of the ecosystem as they help regulate algae levels and clean up decaying organic matter. However, they can become invasive in non-native environments, where they can outcompete native species and disrupt the balance of the ecosystem.

Overall, janitor fish are interesting and useful additions to aquariums, but their care should be taken to prevent them from becoming invasive in new environments.