L-135 Candy Stripe Pleco

Plecostomus are a specialty of AquariumFish.com. These catfish originate in South America, and many colors, sizes and patterns can be found; so many that common names often aren’t enough to identify one pleco from another, so in 1988 a tropical fish magazine in Germany called DATZ assigned “L” numbers to distinguish species. Though not exactly scientific, the system works. We carry a couple of plecos that have not been assigned their L number, but the Germans are a cautious folk, and we are sure they will get around to it in a precise and correct manner. Medium size is 2” to 3”. Most plecos do better with a little driftwood in the tank.

In full disclosure, even the fishmongers have trouble telling the clown pleco from the candy stripe pleco (candy stripe plecos should have narrower orange bands). Often one is sent instead of the other, but both plecos are gentle, attractive scavengers that go well in planted aquariums and community aquariums. These fish live a long time and do not outgrow even a small aquarium tank.

Quick Facts

Care Guide

Tank setup: Give them caves, driftwood and good filtration with some current. A sand or smooth gravel bottom suits them best.

Feeding: Feed sinking pellets or wafers, ideally in the evening when they are most active. They also enjoy frozen bloodworms.

Tankmates: They get along with most peaceful community fish. Give each pleco its own cave to limit territorial squabbles.

Good to know: These plecos are most active at night; dim lighting and caves help them feel secure.