L056 Chubby Pleco (Parancistrus aurantiacus)

A unique, heavily armored pleco from the Tocantins river basin in Eastern Brazil, the L056 or Chubby Pleco gets its name from its unusually wide, flattened body shape. In the wild, they are found in areas of moderate to fast water movement and typically live in rocky areas. They are a hardy and undemanding pleco in the aquarium but should be offered plenty of cover and excellent water quality should be maintained through frequent large water changes. An omnivore, they will accept most sinking foods and fresh veggies but be sure to offer some protein rich options like Repashy gel diet or Fluval Bug Bites Pleco Formula regularly.

Origin: Wild Brazil
Locale: Rio Tocantins
Diet: Omnivore – should be offered protein-rich foods along with algae and biofilm in the aquarium
Adult Size: 8″
Recommended Tank Size: 75 gal
Compatibility: Relatively peaceful

Preferred Water Parameters
pH:                          6.5 – 7.5
Temp:                     78-82F
Ammonia:              0ppm
Nitrite:                    0ppm
Nitrate:                  <30ppm