Native Region:

• Found in Paraguay, Argentina, and Brazil, primarily in the Paraguay River Basin.
• Prefers slow-moving rivers, streams, and floodplain waters with sandy or rocky substrates.

Natural Behavior:

• Nocturnal and primarily bottom-dwelling.
• Feeds on biofilm, algae, and plant matter in the wild.

Size:

• Can grow up to 24 inches (60 cm) in captivity.

Coloration and Phases:

• The Phase 2 stage occurs between 8-12 inches (20-30 cm) when the fish transitions from juvenile dark patterns to a vibrant yellow and black contrast.
• In its final Phase 3, the Luteus Pleco turns solid golden yellow, making it one of the most visually striking plecos.

Lifespan:

• Can live 10-15 years with proper care.

Temperament:

• Generally peaceful but may become territorial with other bottom dwellers.
• Prefers solitude and establishes its own territory within the tank.

Social Behavior:

• Can be kept with peaceful mid-to-top dwelling fish.
• Best kept alone or in large tanks with other large plecos.

Tank Size:

• 150+ gallons for a single adult specimen.

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 75-82°F (24-28°C)
• pH: 6.5-7.5
• Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard.

Tank Setup:

• Substrate: Fine sand or smooth gravel to protect their delicate barbels.
• Decor: Provide driftwood, caves, and rock structures for hiding.
• Filtration: Strong filtration is required to maintain excellent water quality.
• Lighting: Prefers dim lighting or shaded areas in the aquarium.

Primarily Herbivorous:

• In the wild, they consume algae, biofilm, and plant matter.
• In captivity, they require a balanced diet of algae-based foods and fresh vegetables.

Best Foods:

• Algae wafers & sinking pellets (staple diet).
• Fresh vegetables: Zucchini, cucumber, blanched spinach.
• Occasional protein sources: Bloodworms or insect larvae (in moderation).

Feeding Schedule:

• Feed once or twice daily, primarily in the evening when they are most active.

Compatible Tank Mates:

• Peaceful, mid-to-top dwelling fish such as Silver Dollars, Severums, Geophagus, and other large South American species.
• Other large plecos in very spacious aquariums.

Avoid:

• Territorial bottom dwellers like other Hypostomus species or aggressive cichlids.
• Small fish that may disturb or compete for food.

Native Region:

• Found in Paraguay, Argentina, and Brazil, primarily in the Paraguay River Basin.
• Prefers slow-moving rivers, streams, and floodplain waters with sandy or rocky substrates.

Natural Behavior:

• Nocturnal and primarily bottom-dwelling.
• Feeds on biofilm, algae, and plant matter in the wild.

Size:

• Can grow up to 24 inches (60 cm) in captivity.

Coloration and Phases:

• The Phase 2 stage occurs between 8-12 inches (20-30 cm) when the fish transitions from juvenile dark patterns to a vibrant yellow and black contrast.
• In its final Phase 3, the Luteus Pleco turns solid golden yellow, making it one of the most visually striking plecos.

Lifespan:

• Can live 10-15 years with proper care.

Temperament:

• Generally peaceful but may become territorial with other bottom dwellers.
• Prefers solitude and establishes its own territory within the tank.

Social Behavior:

• Can be kept with peaceful mid-to-top dwelling fish.
• Best kept alone or in large tanks with other large plecos.

Tank Size:

• 150+ gallons for a single adult specimen.

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 75-82°F (24-28°C)
• pH: 6.5-7.5
• Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard.

Tank Setup:

• Substrate: Fine sand or smooth gravel to protect their delicate barbels.
• Decor: Provide driftwood, caves, and rock structures for hiding.
• Filtration: Strong filtration is required to maintain excellent water quality.
• Lighting: Prefers dim lighting or shaded areas in the aquarium.

Primarily Herbivorous:

• In the wild, they consume algae, biofilm, and plant matter.
• In captivity, they require a balanced diet of algae-based foods and fresh vegetables.

Best Foods:

• Algae wafers & sinking pellets (staple diet).
• Fresh vegetables: Zucchini, cucumber, blanched spinach.
• Occasional protein sources: Bloodworms or insect larvae (in moderation).

Feeding Schedule:

• Feed once or twice daily, primarily in the evening when they are most active.

Compatible Tank Mates:

• Peaceful, mid-to-top dwelling fish such as Silver Dollars, Severums, Geophagus, and other large South American species.
• Other large plecos in very spacious aquariums.

Avoid:

• Territorial bottom dwellers like other Hypostomus species or aggressive cichlids.
• Small fish that may disturb or compete for food.