A new pleco for my tank.
Posted: 14 Dec 2005, 20:58
I am hoping to buy some more fish for my 50 gallon aquarium this weekend. I was thinking of buying a rubber lip pleco. I have the correct water conditions (74 degree, well oxygenated water). However, I have a 7 inch pleco in my aquarium and last time I added a 4 inch long bottom-dweller (striped raphael cat), my pleco chased him for a few weeks. After a month my pleco calmed down and left my little brother's Ralph alone. I am not sure if my pleco will be territorial toward a 3 inch long new pleco. My pleco is some Hypostomus species and he never minds new cory cats, loaches, or other fish. Would he bother another species of pleco? I do have more caves and hiding places than before so will that help? Also, should I buy more than one rubber lip pleco or will they fight together? I have heard they get only 4 inches long, but is this true? What other types of commonly found plecos are there that stay under 5 inches long?
I only have one 50 gallon aquarium and a barrel with 2 goldfish. Sorry if I confused you. 
I have had my 50 gallon running for over 2 years so I don't have to worry about the 6-8 week rule. The only reason I'm getting new fish is that I just want more fish. I was hoping to get some more peppered cories because currently I have one female and 3 males. I was going to add a few Brochis splendens so the 2 I have now will be in a larger group. Maybe I should get the plecos and if it doesn't work out I can bring them back.