Vieja De Agua - (Rhinelepis aspera)

Fish Details, Description and Information Below:

🐟 Vieja De Agua – (Rhinelepis aspera) – Massive South American Armor-Plated Pleco

The Vieja De Agua (Rhinelepis aspera) is a giant, heavily armored pleco native to the fast-flowing rivers of South America, particularly in Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina. This species is known for its rugged, bony plates covering its entire body, giving it a prehistoric appearance. Often growing over 24 inches in length, the Vieja De Agua is a powerful algae and detritus grazer, making it a functional yet impressive display fish for extremely large aquariums or tropical ponds. Its name, which translates to “Old Woman of the Water” in Spanish and Portuguese, is a nod to its ancient, weathered look.

🔎 Quick Facts – Vieja De Agua (Rhinelepis aspera)

📛 Common Names: Vieja De Agua, Old Woman of the Water
🔬 Scientific Name: Rhinelepis aspera
🌍 Origin: South America – Brazil, Paraguay, Argentina
🎨 Appearance: Thick, bony armor plating; dark gray to black coloration; broad, flat head
📏 Max Size: 24–28 inches (60–71 cm)
💎 Availability: Rare in the aquarium trade due to size requirements

😇 Behavior & Temperament

🤝 Peaceful toward most tankmates, but may be territorial with other large plecos
🌿 Strong algae and detritus grazer
🌊 Thrives in strong currents similar to natural river habitats

🏠 Aquarium & Tank Requirements

📦 Minimum Tank Size: 300+ gallons (ponds preferred for adults)
🪵 Provide large driftwood, flat rocks, and open swimming space
🌊 Requires strong water movement and excellent filtration
💡 Moderate lighting to encourage algae growth

💧 Water Parameters – Vieja De Agua Care

🌡️ Temperature: 72–82°F (22–28°C)
⚗️ pH: 6.5–7.8
💧 Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water

🍽️ Diet – Herbivorous with Detritus Feeding

🌿 Algae wafers, biofilm, and fresh vegetables (zucchini, cucumber, spinach)
🦐 Occasional protein foods such as shrimp pellets
🪵 Benefits from driftwood for digestive health

📋 Vieja De Agua Overview Table

Feature	Details
🌍 Origin	Brazil, Paraguay, Argentina
📏 Max Size	24–28 inches
😇 Temperament	Peaceful, may be territorial with other large plecos
🏠 Tank Size	300+ gallons or pond
⚗️ pH Range	6.5–7.8
🌡️ Temperature	72–82°F
🍽️ Diet	Herbivorous – algae, vegetables, detritus
🎯 Ideal For	Massive aquariums or tropical ponds

✨ Highlight:
The Vieja De Agua is a prehistoric-looking armored pleco that can reach over two feet in length, making it a challenging yet awe-inspiring choice for very large aquariums and ponds.