Rhino Pleco L080

The Rhino Pleco (L080) is a large, powerfully built member of the Pterygoplichthys group from the Amazon basin of Brazil. It earns its common name from the distinctive knobby projections on the snout that give it a rhinoceros-like profile. Its brown spotted patterning covers the body and the large sailfin-like dorsal fin, making it an impressive display fish for spacious aquariums.

L080 is a dedicated herbivore and one of the most efficient algae grazers among large plecos. It consumes large quantities of algae from glass, driftwood, and substrate surfaces. Supplement with spirulina wafers, algae pellets, blanched vegetables, and large driftwood for grazing and shelter. Its large size and high bioload demand powerful filtration and regular water changes.

The Rhino Pleco is peaceful by nature and tolerates a wide range of tankmates. Best kept with large, robust fish — cichlids, large catfish, and other South American species — in a very spacious aquarium. It is an excellent long-term aquarium resident that can live for over a decade in well-maintained conditions.

Water: pH 6.0–7.8, temperature 23–28°C, GH 2–20, KH 1–12; highly adaptable; strong filtration needed. Tank: 250 L minimum; large driftwood, rock caves, powerful canister or sump filtration. Feeding: Herbivore; spirulina wafers, algae pellets, blanched vegetables, large driftwood. Breeding: Cave spawner; requires very large, well-established aquarium. Compatibility: Peaceful; excellent with large robust community species.