Can Buccochromis rhoadesii and Spotted Rubberlip Pleco (L187a) Live Together?

Buccochromis rhoadesii is a semi-aggressive species (8/10), while Spotted Rubberlip Pleco (L187a) is generally mild-mannered (3/10). This notable difference means Buccochromis rhoadesii may occasionally assert dominance over Spotted Rubberlip Pleco (L187a).

Buccochromis rhoadesii and Spotted Rubberlip Pleco (L187a) both frequent the Bottom (Substrate) region of the setup. This overlap can increase competition for space, so providing ample room and cover is important to keep both species comfortable.

Additional behavioural considerations to keep in mind: Aggressive fish may bully and stress shy, slow-moving species. Hyperactive swimmers can stress shy, slow-moving species through constant motion. Two territorial species may clash over territory, especially in smaller tanks.

Worth noting: Spotted Rubberlip Pleco (L187a) is nocturnal and will be most active after lights-out, naturally reducing daytime encounters.

To improve the chances of a peaceful coexistence in this community tank: Provide a significantly larger tank (at least 50% more volume than the minimum) to allow both Buccochromis rhoadesii and Spotted Rubberlip Pleco (L187a) to establish separate territories. Add plenty of line-of-sight breaks using driftwood, rocks, and dense planting to reduce territorial confrontations. A larger aquarium with ample hiding spots can help diffuse aggression and give the less dominant fish space to retreat.

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 24°C and 24°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 24.0°C) for optimal comfort.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 7.8 and 7.8. Maintaining a stable value within this band is more important than hitting an exact number.

For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 10–20 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

To house Buccochromis rhoadesii and Spotted Rubberlip Pleco (L187a) together, plan for an aquarium of at least 600 litres with a minimum length of 180 cm. This recommendation combines the stricter species minimums with a community-load allowance so the pairing has realistic long-term space and filtration headroom.

Because this pairing requires extra vigilance, include plenty of hiding spots — caves, driftwood, and dense plant clusters — so the less dominant fish can retreat when needed.

Specific environmental needs for this combination include: Sand (Sifters), Smooth Gravel (Sensitive Barbels), Established Algae (Otocinclus), Driftwood (Digestion/Hiding). Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.

Both species do well with moderate (standard) water movement, so a standard filtration setup rated for the tank volume should suffice.

This pairing usually fails when the tank is treated like a standard mixed community and the caution flags are ignored. Buccochromis rhoadesii and Spotted Rubberlip Pleco (L187a) need extra room, more cover, and closer observation during the first few weeks so small aggression, feeding, or territory issues do not snowball into a long-term problem.