Rubbernose Pleco – L187B

L187B Rubbernose Pleco (Chaetostoma Formosae)

The Rubbernose Pleco, also known as Rubber Lip Pleco and Bulldog Pleco, as its name suggests, has a distinctive rubber-like texture on its nose used for foraging food along the substrate. Its body coloration varies from a light grey to a dark brown, often with mottled patterns that provide excellent camouflage against the riverbeds in its natural habitat.

Adult Rubbernose Plecos typically reach a size of around 3.5 to 4.5 inches. They are primarily nocturnal, often hiding during the day and becoming more active at night. They are not known to be aggressive or territorial, making them a good choice for community tanks. They are solitary fish and do not require the company of their own kind, although they can coexist peacefully in groups if the tank is large enough.

When considering tank mates for the Rubbernose Pleco, it's important to choose species that are also peaceful and non-aggressive. Ideal tank mates include small schooling fish like tetras and rasboras, as well as other bottom dwellers such as Corydoras catfish. However, they should not be kept with large, aggressive species like cichlids or predatory fish, which could stress or harm the Rubbernose Pleco.

The Rubbernose Pleco is an omnivore with a diet that includes a variety of foods. They are particularly fond of algae and will happily graze on any that grows in the tank. They should also be provided with sinking pellets or algae wafers, as well as vegetables such as zucchini, lettuce, crushed peas, cucumber, and squash.

Creating a comfortable habitat for the Rubbernose Pleco involves incorporating elements that mimic their natural environment. This includes a fine sand or smooth gravel substrate, allowing them to forage without damaging their delicate barbels. Plants such as Java fern, with its large leaves, can provide a sense of safety and cover as the Rubbernose Pleco is a plant-friendly species. Floating plants can help reduce light intensity, catering to the Pleco's preference for low-light environments to replicate their dimly lit environment. It's also important to include structures like caves, made from smooth rocks, slate, or terracotta pipes arranged to form a network of nooks, crannies, shaded spots, and broken lines of sight to provide the Pleco with a sense of security.

The minimum aquarium size for a single Rubbernose Pleco is 30 gallons, while a community aquarium should be at least 50 gallons to provide ample space. In terms of water parameters, the ideal pH range is between 6.5 and 8.0, and the hardness should be within 8-20 dGH. The temperature should be maintained between 68-75°F (20-24°C). The Rubbernose Plecos, like many species that naturally live in flowing waters, need a clean environment to thrive. It's sensitive to the buildup of organic waste, so maintaining pristine water conditions is crucial for its well-being. The water should have brisk movement and a high level of dissolved oxygenation with consistent water parameters.