Pterygoplichthys Multiradiatus

Please note that the content of this book primarily consists of articles available from Wikipedia or other free sources online. Pterygoplichthys multiradiatus is a tropical fish known as a Plecostomus belonging to the armored catfish family (Loricariidae). Named for its sail-like dorsal fin, the part of its scientific name multiradiatus means 'many-rayed' and refers to the rays of the dorsal fin. P. multiradiatus is one of a number of species commonly referred to as the common pleco by aquarists. Other scientific names that were used (as synonyms) for P. multiradiatus include Hypostomus multiradiatus, Ancistrus multiradiatus, and Liposarcus multiradiatus. P. multiradiatus is sometimes confused with Pterygoplichthys pardalis, which is a different species of pleco. P. multiradiatus goes by a number of common names. It can be called the 'long-fin armored catfish' in Hawaii, 'sailfin catfish', 'sailfish catfish', 'many-rayed (multiradiatus) pleco' or 'radiated ptero' in the USA, and janitor fish in the Philippines, where it has become a local pest in the marikina river and is sold in bulk, in efforts to eliminate the fish.