Common Name: L15 Candy Striped Pleco
Scientific Name: Peckoltia vittata
Other Names: Candy Stripe Pleco, L015 Pleco
The L15 Candy Striped Pleco is a beautifully patterned small pleco species known for its striking light and dark brown striped coloration. It has a compact, slightly flattened body with a broad head and a sucker mouth adapted for clinging to surfaces in moderate-flow environments. Unlike some larger plecos, this species remains relatively small, making it an excellent choice for community aquariums. It is peaceful but can be mildly territorial toward other bottom dwellers.
Habitat and Distribution:
Native to the Amazon River Basin, Peckoltia vittata is primarily found in slow to moderately flowing tributaries with sandy and rocky substrates. These waters are warm, well-oxygenated, and often lined with submerged driftwood and rocks, which provide natural hiding spots.
Size and Lifespan:
This species grows to about 4-5 inches (10-12 cm). With proper care, it can live for 8-10 years.
Diet and Behavior:
The Candy Striped Pleco is an omnivore that grazes on biofilm, algae, and small invertebrates in the wild. In captivity, they should be offered high-quality sinking pellets, frozen or live foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and blackworms, and occasional vegetable matter like zucchini, cucumber, or algae wafers. They are generally peaceful but can be territorial with other plecos, especially in confined spaces. Providing multiple hiding spots helps minimize aggression.
Breeding and Reproduction:
Like many Peckoltia species, the Candy Striped Pleco is a cave spawner. Males guard the eggs in caves or crevices until they hatch. Successful breeding in captivity requires a well-structured tank with suitable cave structures, stable water conditions, and high-protein foods to encourage spawning. Fry can be fed finely crushed sinking pellets and baby brine shrimp.
Aquarium Care and Tank Requirements:
A minimum of 30 gallons is recommended for a single specimen, with a larger tank (40+ gallons) needed for a group. Their ideal tank setup includes a soft sand or fine gravel substrate, driftwood and rock formations to create hiding places, moderate filtration to maintain water clarity, gentle to moderate water flow, and dim to moderate lighting to replicate their natural habitat.
Ideal Tank Mates:
The Candy Striped Pleco is peaceful and does well with other non-aggressive fish. Suitable tank mates include Tetras, Corydoras, Dwarf Cichlids, Angelfish, and other small to medium-sized South American fish. Avoid overly aggressive species that may harass them.
Difficulty Level:
Beginner to Intermediate. They are hardy but require stable water conditions and a varied diet to thrive.
Water Parameters:
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Temperature: 76-82°F (24-28°C)
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pH: 6.5-7.5
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General Hardness (GH): 4-12 dGH
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Carbonate Hardness (KH): 3-8 dKH
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Ammonia: 0 ppm
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Nitrite: 0 ppm
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Nitrate: <20 ppm (regular water changes required)
Additional Information:
- They are more omnivorous than some pleco species and require a mix of plant-based and protein-rich foods.
- Their small size makes them a great pleco choice for medium-sized tanks.
- Providing plenty of caves and hiding spots will encourage natural behaviors and reduce stress.
The L15 Candy Striped Pleco is a stunning, manageable-sized pleco that adds beauty and function to a community aquarium. With proper care, it will thrive and display its vibrant striped pattern for many years.
