Rhinoceros Pleco, Alligator Pleco (Glyptoperichthys scrophus)

jaidexl

Glyptoperichthys scrophus is a beautiful sail fin Plecostomus from the Marañon and Ucayali River basins of South America, displaying a nice contrast of milk chocolate over fudge, if you will. This contrast will be seen better over lighter substrates and can darken up completely over darker gravel. The leading edge of the caudal fin will develop a red orange color with age. The common names are characteristic of it's many physical attributes, "Rhino Pleco", suitably describing the horn-like nasal flutes, and "Alligator Pleco" for the ridged texture of the scales. It has also been referred to as "Chocolate Pleco", not to be confused with members of the Hypostomus genus that share the same common name. G. scrophus is a relatively peaceful fish but can become extremely territorial in the presence of other bottom feeders of similar size bearing the slightest streak of aggression, particular at feeding time, but the amount of spunk it has makes it all the more exciting to keep. In my experience, this fish does well with Corydoras, to the point of dining nose to nose with little to no charging, but it definitely does not enjoy sharing it's space with Crossocheilus siamensis. It is nocturnal, but will often be seen active during the day, especially in aquariums with darker substrate, and can learn to greet you at morning and early evening feedings. This fish does well in fully planted aquariums with driftwood or other dark hiding spots, and will guard it's chosen dwelling from other fish. Beware, planted tank enthusiasts, G. scrophus has a special fancy for Echinodorus species and can strip it's chlorophyll in the span of one night.

Gezza

I had one of these until it outgrew my first little tank. It was beautiful, had gorgeous markings and was happy to welcome new fish to the tank, although theywere only guppies. It ate mainly cucumber, as it didn't seem to like the plec tablets I gave him. Bloodworm were also consumed, albeit reluctantly.