Rubber pleco - Parancistrus aurantiacus

Scientific name: Parancistrus aurantiacus

Common name: Rubber pleco

Family: Loricariidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 18 - 27 cm (7.09 - 10.63 inch)

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Recommended pH range: 6.2 - 7.4

Recommended water hardness: 5 - 14°N (89.29 - 250ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature range: 24 - 30 °C (75.2 - 86°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

Short description

Parancistrus aurantiacus, known in the aquarium hobby as the Goldie pleco or Golden Parancistrus (sometimes incorrectly sold as “Rubber pleco”), is a robust loricariid from the lower Amazon basin and its tributaries. It is medium-sized (18–27 cm) and famous for its ability to change coloration: from a dark brown base to a striking golden hue. It often shows a camouflage pattern that blends both colors. In aquaria it requires plenty of hiding spots and subdued lighting, otherwise it tends to become shy.

Origin

Native to South America, specifically the lower Amazon River basin in Brazil and adjacent tributaries. It inhabits sandy and rocky shorelines with moderate currents, where it shelters among roots and boulders.

Food and feeding

An omnivorous bottom grazer with a strong preference for vegetable matter. In captivity it accepts high-quality spirulina tablets, wafers, and sinking catfish pellets. Supplement with blanched vegetables (zucchini, peas, spinach) and leafy greens (e.g., lettuce). Occasionally offer animal protein in the form of frozen or live foods (krill, shrimp, mussels), but these should make up only a small portion of the diet.

Sexing

Sexing is not easy based on external traits. Experienced keepers may distinguish them by body shape: females are fuller-bodied, especially when in breeding condition.

Breeding

In home aquaria, Parancistrus aurantiacus is very rarely bred. It is believed to be a cave-spawning species, similar to other plecos: the female deposits eggs in a cavity or cave, and the male guards them, fanning the clutch with his fins. Successful captive spawnings are exceptional and require a very large, stable aquarium with abundant hides and excellent water quality.

Lifespan

With proper care, it can live 10–12 years, sometimes even longer.

Behavior and compatibility

A peaceful species, it gets along well with other non-aggressive fish of similar or larger size. It is not suitable for tanks with very small fish, which it may disturb during nocturnal foraging. Within its own species it is generally non-aggressive, provided there is enough space and hiding places.

Tank requirements

Tank size: at least 250–300 liters for a single specimen; more for a group.
Substrate: fine sand or rounded gravel; provide roots, caves, and driftwood.
Lighting: subdued; floating plants are appreciated.
Filtration: powerful, with adequate flow and oxygenation.

Care level

A moderately demanding species requiring a large aquarium, stable water parameters, and a balanced diet of plant and animal matter. Hardy when settled but sensitive to long-term declines in water quality.