How to Breed Rubber-Lipped Plecos

The Rubber-lipped plecostomus goes by many names. Rubber-nosed pleco, Striped Bulldog pleco and simply L187b are all a few. They are a fairly docile member of the catfish family and are great tank mates for most other fish. They prefer vegetarian diets, though they will eat blood worms and brine shrimp if it is offered to them. Breeding in captivity is rare. It is said that this is due to the fact that the running water of South America, where these fish originated from, is hard to replicate. However, it is possible and it has happened under the right conditions.

Things You'll Need

  • Two fish
  • 20 gallon tank (minimal)
  • Tank thermometer
  • Filtration system
  • Sandy substrate
  • Smooth rocks
  • Ceramic flower pot
  • Fork
  • Vegetables
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Instructions

    • 1

      Fill the entire bottom of the tank with 3-inches of sandy substrate. Smooth out the surface of the sand with your hands. Place smooth and somewhat flat rocks randomly throughout the tank. Place a clean, medium-sized, ceramic pot on its side and partially bury the bottom of it.

    • 2

      Fill the tank with water and drop in your thermometer. Wait a minimum of two hours to check the water temperature, as it may fluctuate. Adjust the tank's water heater to create an environment of 68 to 73 degrees. Turn the water filtration system on the highest flow to simulate a flowing river. Let the water flow for 24 hours before introducing fish.

    • 3

      Introduce the fish to the tank slowly. Let them float in the tank while still in store bags for at least 20 minutes before releasing them. Once released, the fish will begin to get acclimated to their new surroundings. Perform a 50 to 70 percent water change every few days to emulate the rainy season that the fish naturally spawn in.

    • 4

      Look for signs that breeding was successful. You will notice the male guarding the ceramic pot and not letting the female in. Wait 7 to 10 days for the eggs to hatch into fry. In 2 to 3 days after the fry hatch they will need to be fed. Crush fish flakes for the fry and put washed slices of cucumber, squash and/or broccoli on a fork and let it sink to the bottom for the adults.