Butterfly Pleco (Dekeyseria brachyura) Care Guide

A uniquely flat pleco with a wide, butterfly-like body shape and bold horizontal striping. Native to fast-flowing waters of the Rio Negro and Orinoco basins, it requires strong water flow and high oxy…

Overview

Dekeyseria brachyura is a species in the family Loricariidae. A uniquely flat pleco with a wide, butterfly-like body shape and bold horizontal striping. Native to fast-flowing waters of the Rio Negro and Orinoco basins, it requires strong water flow and high oxygen levels. Its flattened profile allows it to cling to rocks in powerful currents. An interesting and unusual addition to a rheophilic setup.

Taxonomy

Family: Loricariidae
Genus: Dekeyseria
Scientific name: Dekeyseria brachyura
Other names: L168, Dekeyseria brachyura, Flounder Pleco
Origin: South America

Habitat

Endemic to the Rio Xingu basin of Brazil. Inhabits rocky rapids with strong, warm current. Traded under the L-number L168; able to rapidly change between dark and light banded patterns. Grazes biofilm and aufwuchs and accepts vegetable and protein foods.

Tank requirements

Minimum tank volume: 150 L
Temperature: 24-28 °C
pH: 5-7
GH: 1-8 °dGH
Adult size: 12-15 cm
Lifespan: 8-12 years
Difficulty: intermediate

Diet

Classified as omnivore. Recommended feeding frequency: 1x daily. In captivity, offer a varied diet appropriate to the species — quality prepared foods supplemented with frozen or live items of suitable size.

Compatibility

Temperament: peaceful
Swimming level: bottom
Compatible tank mates: Hillstream Loach, Fast-water tetras, Corydoras, Other rheophilic fish
Avoid with: Slow-moving fish, Aggressive bottom-dwellers

Breeding

Breeding strategy: cave-spawner
Breeding difficulty: advanced