Bulldog pleco - Chaetostoma milesi

Scientific name: Chaetostoma milesi

Common name: Bulldog pleco

Family: Loricariidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 10 - 13 cm (3.94 - 5.12 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 6 - 8

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 5 - 19°N (89.29 - 339.29ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 23 - 25 °C (73.4 - 77°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: South America

Temperament to its own species: peaceful

Temperament toward other fish species: peaceful

Usual place in the tank: Bottom levels

Food and Feeding

Bulldog Plecos are primarily herbivores and should be fed a variety of algae-based foods. Algae wafers make an excellent staple, but their diet should also include fresh vegetables like cucumber, romaine lettuce, and zucchini. Blanched vegetables are easier for them to consume and should be offered regularly. Although they prefer plant-based foods, you can offer a weekly treat of protein-rich foods like bloodworms to add variety and keep them healthy.

It's also important to remove any uneaten food to maintain water quality and prevent the buildup of toxins in the tank.

Origin

The Bulldog Pleco (Chaetostoma milesi) originates from the fast-flowing rivers of South America, specifically the Magdalena River Basin in Colombia. These rivers provide the cool, oxygen-rich waters that this species thrives in, and they are adapted to living in areas with strong currents and rocky substrates.

Understanding their natural habitat helps aquarists recreate similar conditions in the home aquarium, ensuring the fish's well-being.

Sexing

Males are distinguishable from females by their larger heads and slimmer bodies. Additionally, males tend to have slightly larger pelvic fins compared to females, which can be used to help identify their sex.

Breeding

To date, there are no verified reports of Chaetostoma milesi breeding successfully in home aquariums. It is believed that they require specific conditions that are difficult to replicate in captivity, such as strong, fast-flowing water, which mimics their natural habitat. Breeders have speculated that this is the main barrier to successful spawning in tanks.

Lifespan

The Bulldog Pleco has an average lifespan of up to 12 years when kept in proper conditions. Ensuring a well-maintained, clean tank with a suitable diet and plenty of hiding places can help them live a full and healthy life.

Short Description

The Bulldog Pleco is known for its peaceful nature and its nocturnal habits. It tends to be quite shy during the day, often hiding away, but once the lights go out, it becomes an active tank cleaner, grazing on algae and keeping the aquarium tidy. Despite being a timid fish, it integrates well into community tanks with other peaceful species.

To help this fish feel secure, provide plenty of hiding spots, such as caves or driftwood. It is an excellent addition to any community tank, especially for those looking for an efficient algae eater.