Pleco Caves

Pleco Caves – Designed Around What Actually Works

When it comes to breeding plecos, the cave matters more than most people realize. If the size is off, too wide, too shallow, too exposed — males simply won’t use it. These designs weren’t made just to look good in a tank. They’re built around what plecos consistently choose and spawn in.

We’ve refined a few core styles that have proven themselves over time.

Euro Caves – $8

The Euro Cave is the classic cylindrical breeding cave. Simple, clean, and consistent. The internal space is proportioned so males can comfortably guard eggs and block the entrance without feeling exposed.

They’re thick enough to feel solid and secure but not oversized. Whether you're running a breeding rack or a display tank, they fit naturally without taking over the layout.

Price: $8 USD each

D Caves – 1.5" (Most Effective) – $6.50

The 1.5-inch D Cave has been one of the most reliable options, especially for smaller to mid-size species. The flat-bottom design keeps it from rolling, which makes a difference in bare-bottom tanks or active setups.

The 1.5" internal diameter tends to hit that sweet spot — snug enough for security, wide enough for proper egg fanning. In a lot of cases, this size simply gets used more than larger caves.

Price: $6.50 USD each

Natural Log – Glazed

The Natural Log style blends breeding function with a more organic look. It keeps the proper internal structure plecos need but softens the outside so it resembles hollow driftwood instead of a straight tube.

The glazed finish is smooth, aquarium-safe, and easy to clean, while still blending naturally once it’s in the tank.

Pricing varies slightly depending on size, but they’re typically in the same range as the Euro style.