Common Name: Rose Spotted Pleco
Scientific Name: Hypostomus roseopunctatus
Other Names: Pink Spotted Pleco, Rosy Pleco
The Rose Spotted Pleco is a beautiful freshwater catfish known for its distinctive rose-colored spots that contrast against a dark body. This pleco is highly sought after by aquarists for its unique appearance and hardy nature.
Habitat and Distribution:
The Rose Spotted Pleco is native to the river systems of South America, particularly found in the Paraguay River Basin. These fish inhabit slow-moving rivers, streams, and floodplains with sandy or muddy substrates and plenty of submerged wood and vegetation, which provide excellent hiding spots and feeding grounds.
Size and Lifespan:
In both the wild and captivity, Rose Spotted Plecos can grow up to 10-12 inches (25-30 cm) in length. With proper care, their lifespan can range from 10 to 15 years, depending on the quality of their diet and water conditions.
Diet and Behavior:
Rose Spotted Plecos are omnivorous, feeding on a variety of plant matter, algae, and small invertebrates in their natural habitat. In an aquarium, their diet should include high-quality sinking pellets, algae wafers, fresh vegetables such as zucchini, cucumber, and spinach, and occasional protein-rich foods like bloodworms and brine shrimp. These plecos are generally peaceful and can be somewhat shy, often hiding during the day and becoming more active at night. They require plenty of hiding spots to feel secure and thrive.
Breeding and Reproduction:
Breeding Rose Spotted Plecos in captivity is possible but can be challenging. They are cave spawners, with the female laying eggs in secluded spots such as caves or hollow pieces of driftwood. The male guards the eggs and fry until they are free-swimming. To encourage breeding, provide plenty of hiding spots and caves, maintain optimal water conditions with regular water changes, and feed a varied diet to enhance their health and breeding readiness.
Aquarium Care and Tank Requirements:
Due to their size and specific needs, Rose Spotted Plecos require a medium to large aquarium, with a minimum of 75 gallons recommended for adult specimens. The tank should have a soft, sandy, or fine gravel substrate to prevent injury to their delicate barbels. Include plenty of hiding spots created with rocks, driftwood, and plants to mimic their natural habitat and reduce stress. Efficient filtration and regular water changes are essential to maintaining water quality. The water temperature should be kept between 75-82°F (24-28°C), with a pH of 6.5-7.5 and soft to moderately hard water.
Ideal Tank Mates:
Rose Spotted Plecos are generally peaceful and can be kept with other non-aggressive fish that share similar water parameter requirements. Suitable tank mates include tetras, rasboras, peaceful cichlids, and other medium-sized community fish. Avoid housing them with highly aggressive or territorial species that may cause stress or injury.
Difficulty Level:
Intermediate. While Rose Spotted Plecos are hardy and adaptable, they require specific tank conditions and diet to thrive, making them suitable for aquarists with some experience. Their peaceful nature and striking appearance make them a great addition to community tanks.
Water Parameters:
• Temperature: 75-82°F (24-28°C)
• pH: 6.5-7.5
• General Hardness (GH): 4-15 dGH
• Carbonate Hardness (KH): 2-8 dKH
• Ammonia: 0 ppm (ideal)
• Nitrite: 0 ppm (ideal)
• Nitrate: <20 ppm (ideal)
Additional Information:
• The Rose Spotted Pleco’s beautiful rose-colored spots and dark body make it a standout addition to any aquarium.
• They are known for their nocturnal behavior, often hiding during the day and becoming more active at night.
• Fun fact: Rose Spotted Plecos are excellent algae eaters, helping to keep the tank clean by grazing on algae growth.
• Conservation status: Not evaluated, but habitat changes and water quality issues in their natural range could potentially impact their populations.
