L-519 Honeycomb Pleco

L-519 Honeycomb Pleco

The L-519 Honeycomb Pleco, or L-519 Rio Iténez Pleco, is named for it's very unique honeycomb color pattern on the body. This pleco originates in Brazil, but the batch we have were bred in the United States for the aquarium trade.

Originating from the clearwater tributaries of the Rio Iténez (Rio Guaporé) basin in Bolivia and Brazil, the L-519 Honeycomb Pleco reaches a manageable adult size of 4 to 5 inches (10-13 cm). Males develop the characteristic soft, branched tentacles or "bristles" across their snout, while females remain smoother-faced or carry only small bristles along the jawline. Because of its small footprint and peaceful nature, a single specimen can comfortably reside in a minimum aquarium size of 20 to 30 gallons, though a group appreciates a larger setup with ample cover.

The L-519 Honeycomb Pleco is a non-aggressive, highly efficient substrate grazer that fits seamlessly into planted aquariums and peaceful community tanks. Its striking reticulated pattern remains crisp and bold into adulthood, offering continuous visual appeal against dark substrates and lush aquascapes.

Diet & Compatibility:

• Diet: This species is a primary Herbivore and Detritivore with a strong affinity for micro-algae and organic biofilm. Feed a steady staple of high-quality sinking spirulina wafers, algae disks, and fresh veggies like blanched zucchini, cucumber, yellow squash, and spinach. Occasional low-protein items like repashy green mixes or sinking herbivore pellets keep them in peak condition.
• Wood Requirement: Providing natural driftwood is essential for their long-term health. The wood yields vital structural cellulose that assists their specialized digestive tract and encourages natural biofilm development.
• Reef / Plant Compatibility: It is Fully Plant Safe. Unlike giant pleco species that destroy aquascapes, the L-519 Honeycomb Pleco gently grazes algae off plant leaves, driftwood, and glass without damaging delicate stems or uprooting roots.
• Temperament: It is Peaceful. It is completely indifferent to midwater or upper-level fish. Males can occasionally display mild territorial behavior over choice spawning caves or feeding spots against other male Ancistrus, but severe aggression is rare if enough visual breaks and hideouts are supplied.
• Tankmates: Excellent tankmates include small-to-medium community species such as Tetras, Rasboras, Corydoras, Danios, Guppies, Angelfish, and Dwarf Cichlids. They can also coexist safely with adult dwarf shrimp and ornamental snails.

Quick Facts

• Scientific Name: Ancistrus sp. L-519
• Primary Common Name: L-519 Honeycomb Pleco
• Other Common Names: Honeycomb Ancistrus, Rio Itenez Honeycomb Pleco, L519 Pleco
• Origin: South America (Rio Iténez / Guaporé Basin, Bolivia & Brazil)
• Max Size: 4-5 inches (10-13 cm)
• Temperament: Peaceful (Mild territoriality between males for caves)
• Diet: Herbivore / Detritivore (Requires algae wafers, fresh greens, and driftwood)
• Minimum Tank Size: 20-30 Gallons
• Plant Compatibility: Completely Plant Safe
• Shipping Size: 1.25 inches