Chocolate Rhino Pleco

pictured left: a 5 yr old Rhino Pleco

Chocolate Rhino Pleco
Pterygoplichthys scrophus

Aka: Alligator Pleco, Chocolate Pleco, Rhino Pleco

Native to: Nauta, Peru.

Max Size: 275mm

Pterygoplichthys can be identified by the number of rays in the dorsal fin.  More than 10 indicate that it's a Pterygoplichthys.  Most other plecos have 8 or fewer rays (in particular the larger Hypostomus species that are most likely to be confused with Pterygoplichthys).  These plecos have two horn-like protrusions from their head that are actually nasal flutes.  The also have alligator-like ridges along the sides of their body.  Colors range from a rich brown to black to mottled brown.

Feeding: An adaptable omnivore that will eat a variety of foods, besides being a very good algae eater, supplement diet with sinking pellet foods and algae wafers.  Vegetables and freeze dried foods are also accepted.

A great pleco for the deeper aquarium and a generally peaceful fish but can be aggressive with other bottom dwellers of similar size/species if not given sufficient room.

Tankmates: Almost any medium sized community fish.
Size at shipping: About 2"+