What is a suckerfish and what dishes can be made from it? To answer the above question, let’s explore the details about suckerfish in today’s article!
1 What is a Suckerfish?
What is a suckerfish?
Suckerfish, also known as violin catfish, glass cleaners, or aquarium cleaners, have the scientific name Hypostomus plecostomus and belong to the family Loricariidae. This popular freshwater aquarium fish is often kept in tanks to feed on algae and remove moss from glass surfaces, thus keeping the aquarium clean.
2 Characteristics of Suckerfish
Characteristics of Suckerfish
Suckerfish have a flat body that grows to a length of about 15-30 cm in adulthood. What sets them apart is their mouth, which resembles a suction cup, enabling them to attach firmly to surfaces like rocks, glass, or wood while feeding. Their fins are large and rigid, spanning the entire body. Suckerfish are typically black or brown with light spots or patterns, allowing them to camouflage effectively in their aquatic environment.
Suckerfish feed on algae, moss, and debris at the bottom of the tank, helping to maintain a clean living environment for other fish species. However, if their size is not monitored, they can outgrow the aquarium and cause overcrowding.
3 Types of Suckerfish in Vietnam
Common Pleco (Hypostomus plecostomus)
Common Pleco (Hypostomus plecostomus)
The Common Pleco has a long body, hard brown or black scales with light spots, and a suction cup-shaped mouth. This species can grow to a length of 30-40 cm and is highly effective at cleaning tanks, but if left unchecked, it can cause overcrowding.
Butterfly Pleco (Beaufortia kweichowensis)
Butterfly Pleco (Beaufortia kweichowensis)
Smaller in size than the Common Pleco, the Butterfly Pleco measures only about 6-10 cm. It has a flat body with large fins resembling butterfly wings, making it well-suited for tanks with strong water currents.
Royal Pleco (Panaque spp.)
Royal Pleco (Panaque spp.)
Belonging to the Panaque genus, the Royal Pleco is a favored aquarium fish due to its ability to clean tanks. They are typically small, ranging from 10-20 cm in length, but some species can grow larger. The Royal Pleco commands a higher price compared to other aquarium cleaners due to its unique appearance and its habit of eating decaying wood, which helps maintain tank hygiene. Additionally, they are often kept as ornamental fish for their unusual appearance and the distinctive patterns on their bodies.
Corydoras Catfish (Corydoras spp.)
Corydoras Catfish (Corydoras spp.)
Although not specialized in cleaning glass, Corydoras Catfish excel at consuming sediment at the bottom of the tank. With their plump bodies and small size, ranging from 3-7 cm, these fish can help maintain a clean environment in the lower levels of the aquarium.
4 Are Suckerfish Edible?
Are Suckerfish Edible?
While not considered harmful, suckerfish are generally not recommended for consumption. According to Dr. Nguyen Kiem Son of the Institute of Ecology and Biological Resources:
-
Poor meat quality: Suckerfish have very little meat, which is also tough and lacking in flavor, making them less nutritious compared to other fish species.
-
Cleaning function: They feed on algae, waste, and debris in the tank, which means their bodies may contain high levels of contaminants and bacteria from their living environment.
-
Not a food fish: Suckerfish are primarily kept in aquariums for their cleaning abilities rather than as a food source.
5 How Much Do Suckerfish Cost?
How Much Do Suckerfish Cost?
The price of suckerfish varies depending on the type and size. For common varieties, the average price ranges from 10,000 to 30,000 VND per fish. Larger or special species can cost between 50,000 and 200,000 VND each. Notably, rare or uniquely patterned suckerfish, such as the Royal Pleco or the Emperor Suckerfish, can fetch prices of several hundred thousand VND per fish.
6 Delicious Dishes Made from Suckerfish
Delicious Dishes Made from Suckerfish
Here are some tasty dishes you can try making with suckerfish:
-
Braised Suckerfish
-
Grilled Suckerfish
-
Steamed Suckerfish
This concludes our overview of the suckerfish, its characteristics, and the delicious dishes that can be prepared from this unique fish. We hope that today’s article has provided you with a clearer understanding of the suckerfish and its role in both aquariums and cuisine!
The Ultimate Guide to Vietnamese Edible and Poisonous Snails and Slugs
“Oc (sea snails) is a delicacy in Vietnam, especially in coastal regions. With a wide variety of species found in Vietnamese waters, these tasty treats are a favorite for many. Join us as we explore the diverse world of these fascinating creatures and uncover the unique culinary delights they offer.”
The Ever-Blooming Edible Garden: Transform Your Home into a Flourishing Floral Paradise
Are you tired of your dull living space? Do you long for a vibrant, green oasis in your home? This remarkable plant offers the perfect solution. With its ability to provide relaxation, enhance your environment, and even offer a source of fresh, healthy food, it will transform your space into the tranquil haven you’ve always desired.
4 Common Dishwashing Mistakes That You Need to Avoid Like the Plague
Washing dishes is a task that anyone can do, but not everyone is confident that they are doing it correctly and hygienically. The consequences of improper dishwashing can be dire, as it may inadvertently cause illnesses for the entire household without one’s knowledge.
“Super-Fast Dishwashing Tips for a Sparkling, Hygienic Clean”
For those who dread the sight of a towering stack of dirty dishes, fear not! With this clever trick, doing the dishes will become a quicker and simpler task.
The Latest iPhone 15: Gen Z Vietnam’s Eager Anticipation and Sacrifice for the Latest Apple Release
“I was overjoyed to hear that the iPhone 15 series will be officially released in Vietnam on September 29, with pre-orders starting a week earlier on September 22,” exclaimed Ngọc Anh.
