L402 Steel Rubbernose - (Chaetostoma sp.)

🐟 L402 Steel Rubbernose (Chaetostoma sp.)

The L402 Steel Rubbernose is a South American pleco recognized for its sleek steel-gray body and distinctive rubber-like snout. Peaceful and hardy, it thrives in aquariums with moderate water flow, driftwood, and hiding spots. Its subtle coloration and unique features make it a standout in both community and species-specific tanks.

🔎 Quick Facts

• 📛 Common Name: Steel Rubbernose
• 🔬 Scientific Name: Chaetostoma sp.
• 🎨 Appearance: Steel-gray body with rubber-like snout
• 📏 Max Size: 5–6 inches (12–15 cm)

😇 Behavior & Temperament

• 🤝 Peaceful, suitable for community tanks
• 🌿 Grazes on algae, biofilm, and vegetables
• 🪵 Prefers caves, driftwood, and rocky hiding spots
• 🌙 Mostly nocturnal, active during low-light periods

🏠 Tank Requirements

• 📦 Minimum Tank Size: 30+ gallons
• 🪵 Provide driftwood, caves, and hiding spots
• 🌊 Moderate water flow
• 💡 Low to moderate lighting

💧 Water Parameters

• 🌡️ Temperature: 74–80°F (23–27°C)
• ⚗️ pH: 6.5–7.5
• 💧 Soft to moderately hard water

🍽️ Diet

• 🌿 Algae, vegetables (zucchini, cucumber)
• 🐟 Occasional protein-rich foods (bloodworms, shrimp)

🔍 Sexing

• 👨 Males: Slightly larger, may develop odontodes on pectoral fins
• 👩 Females: Smaller, rounder abdomen

📋 Overview Table

✨ Snippet:

• 🐟 Steel Rubbernose with sleek gray body and rubber-like snout
• 🪵 Needs driftwood, caves, and hiding spots
• 🌿 Grazes on algae, vegetables, and occasional protein
• 🌊 Prefers moderate water flow
• 🌙 Mostly nocturnal
• 📏 Grows up to 5–6 inches