Rhino Pleco

The rhino pleco differs from other sailfin plecos in its plain dark brown color and the prominent, rough ridges on its body plates; the names "rhino" and "chocolate pleco" come from this look. It lives in the Marañón and Ucayali basins in Peru.

It reaches about 27 cm standard length and 30–35 cm including the tail. It is one of the relatively small species of the genus Pterygoplichthys, but it is still not an "algae eater" suited to a community aquarium.

• At least 400 liters and 150 cm length for one adult.
• A strong canister filter, a 30–40% water change every week.
• Large roots and caves; it gnaws on plants.

Mainly herbivorous. Make algae and vegetable tablets, blanched zucchini, cucumber, spinach and peas the staple; bloodworms or shrimp can be given occasionally. Gnawing on wood aids digestion.

Peaceful toward other species; it can be territorial toward its own kind and other plecos.

Good companions: Medium and large peaceful fish: large tetras, silver dollars, Geophagus species, medium-sized cichlids.

Avoid: Small aquariums, other large plecos (in limited space), slow, flat-bodied fish.