Candy striped pleco

  Plecostomus are popular fish in the aquarium hobby for their ability to help with tank maintenance as well as for their stunning look! Many varieties of Pleco get to a large size very quick especially the common most available type (Asian spot grow over a foot within 1.5 years). This can present a problem as the larger fish produce more waste which can be counterproductive to their cleaning ability. Luckily smaller varieties are available such as the Candy Striped Pleco that maxes out just under 4”.

The Candy Stripe Pleco is a beautiful little fish with a dark body and golden stripes. They are a well-established species in the hobby and are readily available. Candy stripes are great algae eaters however they are omnivores and appreciate variety in their diet. Blood worms and brine shrimp are excellent addition to their food source and will brighten the coloration. They originate from blackwater areas with tannins from falling leaf litter but are not overly sensitive and can be kept in the neutral range. Planted aquariums with soft sand and driftwood are excellent choices for imitating their natural habitat. 

 It has been documented that the Candy Stripe Pleco is a cave breeder. After fertilization the male will stay in the cave to guard the eggs. The eggs (yellow in color) take about a week to hatch with an additional week to absorb the yolk sac. Observing the differences in sex is not too difficult as the female tends to be heavier in appearance. The male will also grow odontodes on their pectoral fins. Odontodes look like tiny teeth on the tips of the fins as well as the body of the male being generally slimmer. 

 The Candy stripe Pleco is a fantastic choice to add as a bottom dweller. They are very hardy, beautiful in appearance and able to be bred in the aquarium environment. Also known as L15 by scientific definition and categorization. For successful breeding they are best kept in pairs alone however they are also a great addition to a community tank.