Rio de Para Pleco (L-75)



Fish Statistics
Minimum Tank Size:200 litres
Diet:Omnivore
Origin:South America
Temp (C):22-26 C
Max Size:22.5cm
Family:Loricariidae
Temperament:Peaceful
pH:6.5 - 7.0
Care Level:Moderate

The Rio de Para Pleco originates from the rivers and tributaries of Brazil, and is also known as the Para Pleco or by its Loricariidae number, L-75. It is a beautiful species that is cream to gold in color with many dramatic black polka dots. Its dorsal fin is large for its size and is outlined in black and adorned with the same black polka dot pattern.
A larger aquarium of at least 200 litre is recommended to house the Rio de Para Pleco. It will get rather large in the aquarium, so provide plenty of room for it to move. Plants, rocks, and driftwood help mirror its natural environment and help give it a sense of security.

In the wild this fish is an egg layer, but breeding in an aquarium setting has not been successful.

A useful herbivore in an aquarium with algae, the Rio de Para Pleco will keep algae under control under normal tank conditions. If no algae is present, supplement its diet with dried algae sheets, algae wafers and other herbivore preparations..........................

For its size, this is a very peaceful and gentle pleco. They do however need ample room for play as they can be quite active.

A full grown adult will never find enough algae to support it in a tank environment. Fortunately they really love algae tablets, pumpkin, zucchini(courgette) and cucumber.

For the sheer size of this species its waste is surprisingly low with some species such as ancistrus being much higher in output.

The attractiveness of the leopard spots is quite striking as rather than a black pleco with white spots, the L075 is a white pleco with rather large black spots.

good share mate

Rio de para isn't the only place its found, it is also at Guyana, Essequibo drainage, Venezuela/Colombia, middle reaches of Orinoco drainage, northern Brazil, Rio Negro drainage and river of Para State flowing north into the Amazon downstream of the confluence with the Rio Negro.

Its scientific name is Peckolita sabaj named after Gustavo Peckolt, and Dr. Mark Henry Sabaj.

I have 4 almost adults which I hope to breed in the future. Seems like they take forever to mature.

If anyone is interested there are 5 of these currently for sale on ebay

Just a tad too big for my liking but lovely plecs

Linky

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/L75-Para-Pleco-Wild-Plec-Catfish-Tropical-Fish-UK-P-P_W0QQitemZ290370049510QQcmdZViewItemQQptZUK_Pet_Supplies_Fish?hash=item439b6755e6

What you reckon? Get the heater off for a while and a big water change?
Think she's gonna blow, hope the male is ready.

Lovely , I really hope she is pregnant for you Brengun, don't forget to send me a PM
if you do get a batch of babies- definately interested in picking up 1 of these guys.
J

very very plump.......

i also hope your male is ready because i dont think she will take no for an answer....