Peckoltia brevis (L030) Care Guide
Peckoltia brevis is a small armored loricariid catfish from the Purus River basin in Brazil, one of the early L-numbered plecos.
Overview
Peckoltia brevis is a small armored suckermouth catfish in the family Loricariidae, described by La Monte in 1935. It is a hardy banded Peckoltia and one of the original L-numbered plecos in the hobby. The species reaches about 11.4 cm in standard length.
Taxonomy
- Family: Loricariidae
- Genus: Peckoltia
- Scientific name: Peckoltia brevis
- Describer: La Monte, 1935
- Trade designation: L030
Habitat
Peckoltia brevis occurs in the Purus River basin in Brazil. Members of the genus inhabit shallow, rocky riffles and quieter areas where they shelter inside cavities in submerged wood. It is a freshwater, demersal species of tropical climates.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 100 L
- Temperature: 24-28 degrees Celsius (75-82 degrees Fahrenheit)
- pH: 6.0-7.5
- GH: 2-12 dGH
- Water flow: moderate
- Lifespan: 8-12 years
FishBase records a natural pH range of 5.8-7.8 for the species. Provide driftwood, caves and clean, oxygenated water.
Diet
The species is omnivorous. A varied diet of sinking prepared foods, vegetable matter and occasional protein items suits it. As a nocturnal fish it usually feeds after lights-out.
Compatibility
Peckoltia brevis is peaceful and bottom-dwelling, spending much of the day hidden. It can be combined with calm species such as tetras and Corydoras. Aggressive or strongly territorial plecos should be avoided.
Breeding
Peckoltia are cave-spawning loricariids, and breeding this species is considered advanced. Males develop hypertrophied odontodes during the breeding season.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern (assessed 28 October 2020).