The janitor fish is one of the most familiar freshwater fish in the Philippines. Known for its ability to stick on surfaces and eat leftover debris, this fish is often found in aquariums and local rivers. Many Filipinos call it “sipsip-sipsip” because of its suction-type mouth, and it has become both useful and invasive over the years.
What Is Janitor Fish? (Meaning & Basic Info)
A janitor fish is a freshwater species commonly used as an aquarium cleaner. It belongs to the Plecostomus family and is known for eating algae, leftover food, and dirt inside a tank. The name “janitor fish” simply means “a fish that cleans.
Janitor Fish Meaning:
A fish that helps keep the aquarium clean by sucking algae and debris.
Janitor Fish in Tagalog
The fish in Tagalog is called “isda-janitor” or “sipsip isda.” Many Filipinos also call it pleco or “armored catfish” because of its hard, bony skin.
Janitor Fishes Scientific Name
The scientific name of this species is Pterygoplichthys pardalis or Pterygoplichthys disjunctivus, depending on the species.
Janitor Fish Species & Characteristics
There are several species, but the most common types in the Philippines include:
- Common Pleco
- Sailfin Pleco
- Albino Janitor Fishes
- Hypostomus Pleco
Characteristics:
- Suction-type mouth
- Hard, armor-like skin
- Can grow very large
- Active at night
- Eats algae and leftover food
Janitor Fish Mouth (Why It Looks Unique)
One of the most recognizable features of this species is its suction-style mouth, shaped like a round disk. This special mouth allows the fish to cling to glass, rocks, and driftwood while scraping off algae.
Janitor Fish Habitat in the Philippines
Although originally from South America, this fish is now common in:
- Laguna de Bay
- Pasig River
- Pampanga River
- Irrigation canals
- Fish ponds
They thrive in muddy, shallow waters and can survive in harsh conditions, making them an invasive species.
Janitor Fish Size & Lifespan
- Size: 10 inches to 2 feet long (especially in rivers)
- Lifespan: 10 to 15 years depending on care and environment
Because of their size, they often outgrow small aquariums.
Is Janitor Fish Safe to Eat?
Many Filipinos ask: Is this fish safe to eat?
Technically, yes, it is edible, but it is not commonly eaten in the Philippines. It has a strong taste, too many bones, and sometimes contains toxins or heavy metals if caught from polluted rivers.
Some communities use it for:
- Fish meal
- Fertilizer
- Pet food
But for human food, it’s not recommended unless properly cleaned and sourced from clean water.
Janitor Fish Food – What Do They Eat?
What do janitor fish eat?
In the wild and in aquariums, they usually consume:
- Algae
- Leftover fish food
- Vegetables (cucumber, lettuce, malunggay leaves)
- Algae wafers
- Small insects
This makes them effective aquarium cleaners.
Many Filipinos buy this fish for aquariums because they believe it will clean the tank.
But does it really clean an aquarium?
Many aquarium owners find this species useful for:
Yes, but only partially.
The janitor fish cleans algae and leftover food, but it does not replace water changes or filter cleaning.
So the idea that “janitor fish cleans aquarium fully” is only partially true.
Aquarium Janitor Fish – Best Uses
A janitor fish is useful for:
- Controlling algae growth
- Reducing leftover waste
- Keeping the glass clear
- Maintaining a cleaner aquarium environment
They are especially helpful in large tanks.
Janitor Fish Tank Mates
Suitable tank mates include:
- Goldfish
- Gouramis
- Mollies
- Guppies
- Tetras
- Barbs
But avoid pairing with aggressive cichlids that may bite their fins.
Adding a Janitor Fish in an Aquarium with Goldfish
Fish Food – What Do They Eat?
Yes, you can keep a janitor fish with goldfish, especially in big tanks.
Goldfish are messy eaters, so the janitor fish helps consume leftover food.
Albino Janitor Fish
The albino janitor fish is a pale, reddish-white variant that is popular in pet stores.
They require the same care as regular plecos but are more sensitive to extreme light.
Janitor Uses in the Philippines
Filipinos use this fish for:
- Aquarium cleaning
- Biological control of algae
- Pond cleaning
- Fish meal production
Some LGUs even turn harvested janitor fish into fertilizers.
Janitor Fish Price in the Philippines
The price varies depending on the size:
- ₱20 – ₱80 (small)
- ₱100 – ₱300 (medium)
- ₱300 – ₱600+ (large or albino variety)
Very affordable for aquarium owners.