Is my pleco becoming mean?

[Crat]

it is very possible that the gourami was messing with him.. and most likely didnt just get murdered for no reason--- plecos CAN be extremely agressive but it is usually only triggered in defense... I have never seen a pleco being violent without reason

monitor him a bit more closely and I think it will be fine.. if not get him his own tank (you could add some agressive fish with him maybe).. or rehome him (I would probably take him if you cant find anyone)

Well it has been a few days and pleco has not been bothering anyone else as far as I can tell. My wife said she thinks the gourami was picking on him a bit. And thoes are some big shoes for a 2" gourami to fill. So I guess she asked for it. I will continue to keep an eye on them, but It seems the rest of the fish know better. they give the pleco a wide birth most of the time. I think in the end I will rehome the remaining gourami in a 29 gal paludarium, and get him a new mate in his new home. I just bought the tank so it's going to be a while before it's ready for fish but I think he'll be alright as long as he does,t decide to pick on the pleco. Of corse, I may change my mind by the time I'm finished with this new project.

Thanks again for all the advice AC. You guys are awsome.

Peace,
Caleb

 

[inkyjenn]

i wouldnt put another pleco in with your common. most plecos arent aggressive towards other fish species, but will be very aggressive towards their own kind

 

[excuzzzeme]

I second inkyjens comments. Due to their potential size, the minimum I would put a common in would be a 75 gallon tank.

 

[Crat]

Not planning on moving the pleco, he's staying in the big tank. It's the gourami I'm planning on moving and probably get another female gourami for him. So he's not lonely.