Candy striped pleco

Photo: Gabriel Lelis Togni, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Loricariidae

Candy striped pleco

Peckoltia vittata

peacefulsolitary

13 cm

Adult size

180 L

Minimum volume

1

Minimum group

8 years

Lifespan

Water parameters

Understand these values
pH5 – 7.5
49
Hardness (GH)2 – 20°
0°30°
Temperature23 – 26°C
18°C32°C
Genus
Peckoltia
Diet
omnivore, herbivore, algae eater
Social life
solitary

In the wild

Overview

This small pleco striped with dark and light bands stays a reasonable size (13 cm) and therefore suits more modest tanks than most Loricariidae. It can breathe air, like other members of its genus.

Scientific name
Peckoltia vittata (Steindachner, 1881)
Classification
Siluriformes › Loricariidae
IUCN Red List
Least concern (LC)

Natural habitat

Brazilian Amazon (lower Tapajós, Madeira, Xingu, Uatumã, Trombetas, Capim) and Río Ventuari in Venezuela

Observations (GBIF) and localities Native countries Rivers and lakes

In Venezuela it has been caught on rocks in areas of current.

Behaviour

Peaceful and nocturnal, it grazes algae and nibbles plants and roots. It can be kept in a group, with calm fish. Plant-based sinking food, soft wood to rasp and frozen prey.

Sources:FishBase GBIF · Base map: Natural Earth

Candy striped pleco · Aquarius