Golden Vampire Pleco (Leporacanthicus sp.)

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The Golden Vampire Pleco is an exceptionally rare and visually captivating species within the Leporacanthicus genus, renowned for its metallic golden sheen and distinctive fang-like teeth. Found in rocky, fast-flowing waters of the Amazon basin, this pleco combines striking appearance with an assertive yet manageable personality. Its vibrant golden coloration and graceful movement make it a remarkable centerpiece for experienced aquarists and collectors alike.

What We Love About This Fish:

• Brilliant Metallic Coloration: Deep bronze-to-gold body tones that shimmer under aquarium lighting.
• Signature “Vampire” Teeth: Prominent fang-like teeth used for rasping meaty foods and biofilm.
• Rare and Sought-After: A highly prized species seldom seen in the trade.
• Distinct Personality: Bold and curious without being overly aggressive.

Natural Habitat:

This species is collected from fast-flowing tributaries of the Amazon River in Brazil, where oxygen-rich waters flow over rocky substrates. The Golden Vampire Pleco naturally inhabits shaded crevices and rocky ledges, often resting beneath stones or driftwood between feedings.

Aquascaping:

• Plants: Hardy species such as Anubias, Java Fern, and Bucephalandra that can attach to hardscape.
• Hardscape: Smooth stones, caves, and driftwood to provide secure hiding spots.
• Botanicals: Indian Almond Leaves or alder cones to enhance natural tannins and promote healthy water chemistry. Aquatic Arts Botrnical Combo pack has a great selection of leave litter that plecos love.

Diet and Feeding:

The Golden Vampire Pleco is primarily carnivorous, feeding on invertebrates and meaty foods in the wild. In the aquarium, provide a varied diet of sinking carnivore wafers, frozen bloodworms, blackworms, and high-protein Repashy blends we use and recommend Ultra Fresh Carnivore Sticks. Occasional vegetable offerings such as blanched zucchini can supplement their diet and improve digestion.

Tank Mates and Compatibility:

Best kept with peaceful mid- and upper-level fish such as tetras, rasboras, and rainbowfish. Avoid housing with other bottom dwellers or territorial plecos unless the tank is large and structured with ample hiding areas.

Shrimp Compatibility:

May coexist with adult shrimp in larger aquariums, though due to their carnivorous diet, smaller or newly hatched shrimp may be at risk. For mixed setups, provide dense plant coverage or mosses for refuge.

Breeding:

Captive breeding is uncommon but possible under the right conditions. Males tend to guard their chosen caves aggressively during spawning. Strong current, warm temperatures, and well-oxygenated water are key to encouraging breeding behavior.

Recommended Tank Parameters:

• Temperature: 78° – 86° F (26° – 30° C)
• pH: 6.2 – 7.4
• KH: 2 – 8 dKH
• Minimum Tank Size: 40 gallons

Care Guidelines:

• Diet: Carnivorous; prefers meaty foods and high-protein sinking diets.
• Social Behavior: Semi-territorial; best kept singly or with peaceful tank mates.
• Origin: Wild-collected from the Amazon Basin, Brazil.
• Average Adult Size: 6 – 7 inches (15 – 18 cm)
• Average Purchase Size: 3 – 4 inches (7.5 – 10 cm)

Add a touch of brilliance and mystery to your aquarium with the Golden Vampire Pleco, a rare gem that pairs elegance with strength and an unforgettable golden glow.

Live Arrival Guarantee:
All Aquatic Arts brand animals come with a 100% live arrival guarantee, plus free email support at Info@AquaticArts.com