Rubberlip Pleco L444
Rubberlip Pleco L444
Rubberlip Pleco L444 (Chaetostoma formosae) is a hillstream-style pleco with a distinctive broad, rubbery lip that functions as a suction cup on rocks in fast-flowing water. A dedicated algae grazer from Andean streams.
Feeding & Care Tip: Hikari Mini Algae Wafers and Hikari Sinking Wafers make excellent staples. Supplement with Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Bloodworms and blanched vegetables. Provide caves for shelter. Good filtration and regular water changes important.
Specialist loricariid from South American river systems. Requires appropriate cave shelter, good water quality, and regular feeding.
Singly or in pairs. Cave spawner with male brood care in most species. Peaceful with most tankmates.
A rewarding collector pleco for experienced loricariid enthusiasts.
Care & Ideal Parameters
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Temperament | Peaceful — specialist loricariid |
| Typical Adult Size | 4.5 inches (11 cm) |
| Min. Group Size | Singly or pair |
| Ideal Temp | 78–84°F (26–29°C) |
| Ideal pH | 6.0–7.5 |
| Ideal GH | 2–12 dGH |
| Ideal KH | 0–5 dKH |
| Staple Food | Hikari Mini Algae Wafers; Hikari Sinking Wafers |
| Treat / Supplement | Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Bloodworms; blanched vegetables |
| Origin | Andean streams, Colombia |
| Notes | L444. Chaetostoma — Andean hillstream loricariid. Broad rubbery suction lip. Cooler water than typical plecos. Effective algae grazer. |