Candy Striped Pleco (Peckoltia vittata) Care Guide

A small, attractively patterned pleco from the Rio Tocantins basin in Brazil with alternating dark and light bands across its body and fins.

Overview

Peckoltia vittata is a species in the family Loricariidae. A small, attractively patterned pleco from the Rio Tocantins basin in Brazil with alternating dark and light bands across its body and fins. Hardy and peaceful, it makes an excellent community pleco that stays a manageable size. Omnivorous, it appreciates both protein-based foods and some wood to rasp on.

Taxonomy

Family: Loricariidae
Genus: Peckoltia
Scientific name: Peckoltia vittata
Other names: L015, Peckoltia vittata
Origin: South America

Habitat

Native to the Río Orinoco and adjacent basins of Venezuela and Colombia. Inhabits warm rivers and streams with submerged wood and rocky substrate. A small Peckoltia marked with dark transverse bands; an omnivore that benefits from driftwood and accepts vegetable and protein foods.

Tank requirements

Minimum tank volume: 80 L
Temperature: 24-28 °C
pH: 5.5-7.5
GH: 2-15 °dGH
Water flow: moderate
Adult size: 8-10 cm
Lifespan: 8-12 years
Difficulty: beginner

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: Tetras, Corydoras, Rasboras, Dwarf Cichlids, Peaceful community fish
Avoid with: Other territorial plecos in small tanks, Large aggressive fish

Breeding

Breeding strategy: cave-spawner
Breeding difficulty: intermediate