They are indeed one of the most popular plecos; with its charming black and white stripes. Due to their small size of only 3 to 4 inches, they are perfect for most aquariums (recommended minimum of 20 gallons).

Caring for them is not a difficult task. They require sufficient filtration, and good water quality. They prefer tropical temperatures roughly between 75 and the high 80s. pH really doesn’t matter because hey can tolerate a wide range; varying from 8.0 to 6.0. It is best to have small caves or tunnels for each pleco residing in the aquarium. When the plecos are first placed in the aquarium they will hide inside the caves or tunnels until they adjust to their new surrounding. Once they adjust and become secure they will start to sit in front of their caves, and become active during the day. However it may take up to 3 months before they feel secure enough to become active during the day.

Feeding can sometimes be tricky. They are a carnivorous species. They mainly eat live, frozen, and/or freezed-dried foods. However they can be just as picky eater as people. Some will refuse to eat anything other than meety foods, where others will eat only live foods, and then there are some that will eat only certain types of flake food. Because of this newly acquired plecos will have to be feed very small portions of a variety of different foods. This will allow you to get an idea of what they will eat and what they wont even dare touch. Also feeding small portions will prevent water pollution if they don’t eat. After you gagged what their dining preferences are then you can gradually increases feeding proportions. It is very important not to over feed because they are very sensitive to nitrates and nitrites. So insure they have sufficient filtration.