Sunshine Pleco (L014) Care Guide
Scobinancistrus aureatus (L014, Sunshine Pleco) is a large Xingu loricariid with yellow spotting; a carnivore-leaning pleco needing warm, oxygen-rich water.
Overview
Scobinancistrus aureatus, the Sunshine or Goldie Pleco (L-number L014), is a large suckermouth catfish described by Burgess in 1994. FishBase records a maximum total length of about 29 cm. It is a striking dark pleco marked with bright yellow spots and fin tips.
Taxonomy
- Family: Loricariidae
- Genus: Scobinancistrus
- Scientific name: Scobinancistrus aureatus
- L-number: L014
Habitat
Wikipedia and FishBase report the species as endemic to the Xingu River basin in Brazil, a clear, fast-flowing tropical drainage. PlanetCatfish notes that high oxygen levels considerably improve the fish's wellbeing.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 500 L
- Temperature: 24-28 °C (75-82 °F)
- pH: 6.0-7.5
- GH: 2-12 °dGH
- Lifespan: 8-12 years
- Provide driftwood, caves and clean, well-oxygenated water
Diet
Carnivore-leaning. PlanetCatfish reports that it eats most foods offered; juveniles are grown on with bloodworm, while adults relish prawns and mussels in addition to a staple of sinking catfish tablets.
Compatibility
A large, primarily nocturnal bottom-dweller. It can be territorial toward other plecos, so it is best given ample space, caves and a high-flow, oxygen-rich setup.
Breeding
A cave-spawner; breeding is considered advanced and is rarely achieved in the aquarium.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Vulnerable (assessed 2018), reflecting pressure on its restricted Xingu range.