Rusty Pleco

Hypostomus faveolus is a large Brazilian loricariid characterised by its warm, rust-coloured body with a distinctive faveolate (honeycomb) pattern of pale spots on dark-edged plates. It is an adaptable, hardy herbivore well suited to large aquariums where its beautiful colouration can be appreciated at full size.

Water: 22–28°C, pH 6.0–7.5, adaptable; strong filtration for large waste output. Tank: Large driftwood and rocky caves; minimum 250L; robust hardscape. Feeding: Herbivore; algae wafers, large blanched vegetables, driftwood grazing, sinking pellets. Behaviour: Nocturnal; generally peaceful but territorial toward same species adults. Compatibility: Large community tanks with robust fish; avoid keeping two large Hypostomus together.