Rio Grande Sucker
NameRio Grande Sucker
Scientific NamePantosteus plebeius
Common NamesRio Grande Sucker
FamilyCatostomidae
OriginNorth America, Rio Grande Basin, Colorado, New Mexico, Texas, Mexico
Temperamentpeaceful
Dietomnivore
Care Levelintermediate
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)75
Max Size (Inches)10
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)60-75
pH Range7.0-8.0
Compatible SpeciesOther peaceful, cool-water North American native fish, Dace species, Shiner species, Other small, non-aggressive suckers
Description
The Rio Grande Sucker is a bottom-dwelling freshwater fish native to the Rio Grande basin in North America. It possesses a subterminal mouth adapted for scraping algae and detritus from rocks and substrate. Its coloration is typically mottled brown with a distinctive reddish lateral stripe, especially vibrant during breeding.
