Sultan Pleco (L264) Care Guide
Leporacanthicus joselimai (L264) is a loricariid catfish endemic to the Tapajos River basin of Brazil, listed as Vulnerable by the IUCN.
Overview
Leporacanthicus joselimai, known in the hobby as L264 or Sultan Pleco, is a suckermouth armoured catfish of the family Loricariidae. Like others in the genus it has large teeth in the upper jaw; this species has been observed using its enlarged teeth to extract snails from their shells. It was described by Isbrucker and Nijssen in 1989 and named for the Brazilian ichthyologist Jose Lima de Figueiredo.
Taxonomy
- Family: Loricariidae
- Genus: Leporacanthicus
- Scientific name: Leporacanthicus joselimai Isbrucker & Nijssen, 1989
- L-number: L264
Habitat
According to FishBase, Leporacanthicus joselimai is found in the Tapajos River basin of Brazil. Members of the genus generally occupy fast-flowing, well-oxygenated river stretches with rocky or gravel substrates.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 300 L (about 79 gal)
- Temperature: 24-28 °C (75-82 °F)
- pH: 6-7.5
- GH: 2-12 °dGH
- Lifespan: 8-12 years
- Water flow: moderate
Diet
Leporacanthicus joselimai is carnivorous and consumes invertebrate matter; recorded food items include molluscs, caddis flies and freshwater sponges. In aquaria it is fed once daily on meaty foods such as frozen invertebrates.
Compatibility
This is a bottom-dwelling, largely nocturnal catfish that can be territorial towards other plecos. It coexists with peaceful mid-water companions such as tetras and Corydoras, but other aggressive or territorial plecos should be avoided. Driftwood and caves are essential.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Vulnerable, assessed in 2018 (FishBase).