Whiptail Pleco (Rineloricaria fallax)

Scientific Name(s): Rineloricaria fallax

 

Common Name(s): Whiptail Pleco, Whip Tail Pleco, Whiptail Catfish, Whiptail Plecostomus

 

Family: Loricariidae

 

Species Type: Plecostomus

 

Maximum Size: 6 inches

 

Life Span: 14 years

 

Natural Habitat: South American Rivers

 

Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons

 

Tank Region: Bottom

 

Possible Tank Mates: This species does well in community or semi aggresive tanks.

 

Description: The whiptail comes from shallow, fast flowing streams, so some water movement is required. Broad leaved plants are recommended and are rarely damaged. Some driftwood is also recommended, but not essential. As with most catfish, the Whiptail is nocturnal. This fish has very strict water requirements so it is not reccomended for beginners.

 

Temperature Range 64°F - 78°F

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pH Range 5.8 - 7.8

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pH 9.0

 

Hardness 10° - 20°

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Breeding Information: Difficult. Perfect water conditions are required, along with plenty of food. Make sure the food is eaten though, as any left to waste will degrade the water quality. A long, shallow (15-25cm deep) breeding tank should be set up, with very fine gravel. Some hollow logs/tubing are essential as the eggs are laid in these and then guarded by the male. The fry are hard to raise, and in their first few weeks should be fed young brine shrimp.

 

Sexing Information: Males tend to have a more pronounced brush around their mouth.

 

Diet: Herbivorous - feed fresh green vegetables such as zucchini slices, cucmbers slices and romaine lettuce. This species also will take sinking algae wafers.

 

Temperment: Peaceful and shy

 

Common Diseases: None specific to species

 

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Whiptail Plecostomus (Rineloricaria fallax)