Plecos and new world cichlids

[Johnnyhigh5]

Who uses plecos in their new world cichlid tanks, and why? I'm starting to wonder if I really need them or not. They crap a ton and I have to syphon it out every other day. Because it sticks out like a sore thumb in tanks with pool filter sand and bubble filters..

[four_by_ken]

(not trying to be a smart ass)

If you are "using" plecos... I am guessing that you are under the understanding that they clean the tank.  Generally speaking, this is not true.  Some will help to control algae, but that is it.

In general... plecos are the same as other fish.  The do poop a LOT.

I went through a phase and got a few of the more exotic (not crazy expensive though) plecos.  The problem with keeping them with cichlids... at least Africans... they like soft water (from the Amazon mostly) and Africans like hard water.  Not the best mix.

The worst part of them for me... they hide so much.  But, they need to hide to stay happy and healthy.

[four_by_ken]

Just reread... New Worlds.  Better chance than with Africans due to the ph of the water.

Ugh.  Thats what I get for not fully reading.

[linuxrulesusa]

I only use plecos in my new world tanks when I like and want to see the plecos. I don't use them for cleanup duty except for algae.  Also, I don't generally put plecos with CA cichlid but more with cichlids like angels or rams.  But not when trying to breed a particular species because plecos can eat the eggs.  I also generally use bristlenose plecos as they are great for algae and general cleanup.  And I only mix L# plecos with calm cichlids, again ones like angels/rams/apistos.

I avoid species like clown plecos (only eat wood) or common plecos (used to be Hypostomus plecostomus, but now usually pterogoplicthys gibbiceps) because they just make a mess vs. helping with cleanup.  The so-called common plecos are sturdy enough though to hold their own with some bigger cichlids.