Pleco with dent on her head

[CSnyder00]

So within the last day I noticed my big female has somehow developed a large dent on the right hand side of her head. I finally got some good pics tonight. She is feeding normally, shows no signs of distress or problems, and even laid eggs last week. She is about three years old. Any ideas? It doesn't seem to be hole in the head, but maybe I've just never seen HITH like this? No spots or issues to speak of. Very odd. Help if any can be given.

 

[rsanz]

I have a severum with a similar "dent" in a similar spot (right behind the gill plate), who is also acting and eating normally. Did it just show up recently, or do you suspect that it's been there for a while and you're just now noticing it?

My severum is still a juvie, so I am just chalking it up to birth defect/deformity. I'd be interested to hear others' thoughts as well.

 

[lkelly]

I believe these guys are prototyping a helmet as their next product. Maybe you can be part of the beta program.

http://www.theplecofeeder.com