L264 Sultan Pleco (Leporacanthicus joselimai)

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The L264 Sultan Pleco is a stunningly regal species, easily recognized by its striking black-and-white contrast and graceful fin extensions. Native to the Rio Tapajós in Brazil, this Loricariid combines elegance and strength, earning its royal nickname among pleco enthusiasts. Its calm temperament and bold presence make it a prized centerpiece for well-aquascaped community aquariums.

What We Love About This Fish:

• Distinctive Coloration: Deep charcoal body accented by bright white edges on the dorsal, caudal, and pectoral fins.
• Elegant Profile: Streamlined body and extended fins give it a truly “royal” appearance.
• Peaceful Personality: Generally calm and non-aggressive toward tank mates.
• Hardy and Adaptable: Adjusts well to stable aquarium conditions with moderate flow.

Natural Habitat:

The Sultan Pleco originates from the Rio Tapajós basin in Brazil, a clearwater river known for its sandy substrate, rocky structures, and moderate to strong water flow. In the wild, it seeks out shaded crevices among smooth stones and driftwood, where it grazes on meaty foods and biofilm.

Aquascaping:

• Plants: Hardy and low-light plants such as Anubias, Java Fern, and Amazon Swords.
• Hardscape: Smooth river stones, driftwood, and shaded rockwork to provide hiding places.
• Botanicals: Indian Almond Leaves and alder cones to condition water and encourage biofilm development.

Diet and Feeding:

The L264 Sultan Pleco is primarily carnivorous. Offer a variety of sinking high-protein foods such as carnivore wafers, frozen bloodworms, blackworms, and Ultra Fresh Carnivore Sticks. Supplement occasionally with blanched vegetables or spirulina wafers to balance nutrition. Avoid overfeeding and maintain excellent water quality.

Tank Mates and Compatibility:

This species is peaceful and well-suited to community aquariums with similarly sized or smaller fish that are not overly territorial. Avoid housing with other large bottom dwellers or aggressive plecos to prevent competition for space.

Shrimp Compatibility:

Generally safe with adult shrimp, though small or newly hatched shrimp fry may be at risk due to the pleco’s meaty diet. Provide dense plant cover or mosses to protect smaller shrimp if housed together.

Breeding:

In the aquarium, breeding is rare but possible. The male guards the eggs in a tight cave or crevice until the fry are free-swimming. A strong current, warm temperature, and high oxygenation can encourage spawning behavior.

Recommended Tank Parameters:

• Temperature: 78° – 86° F (26° – 30° C)
• pH: 6.4 – 7.4
• KH: 2 – 8 dKH
• Minimum Tank Size: 40 gallons

Care Guidelines:

• Diet: Carnivorous; feed sinking meaty foods and supplements of plant matter.
• Social Behavior: Peaceful but territorial with other bottom dwellers.
• Origin: Wild-collected from the Rio Tapajós, Brazil.
• Average Adult Size: 5.5 – 6 inches (14 – 15 cm)
• Average Purchase Size: 2.5 – 3.5 inches (6 – 9 cm)

A true showpiece of the South American rivers, the L264 Sultan Pleco embodies elegance and strength. Its refined beauty, peaceful nature, and regal coloration make it a perfect choice for aquarists seeking a standout centerpiece.

Live Arrival Guarantee:
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