L014 Sunshine Pleco (Scobinancistrus aureatus)

Scobinancistrus aureatus (L014), the iconic Sunshine Pleco, is one of the most coveted loricariid catfish in the hobby, hailing from the fast-flowing, highly oxygenated rapids of the Xingu River in Brazil. It displays a dramatic jet-black body covered in vivid yellow spots that radiate a brilliant, sunburst-like pattern in juveniles, gradually transitioning to a golden sheen in large adults. It grows significantly large and requires a very spacious aquarium with strong filtration, high water temperature, and excellent aeration to reproduce the conditions of its native environment.

House singly in a very spacious aquarium (minimum 400 L) with large smooth boulders and driftwood providing shelter. Maintain warm, soft water (pH 6.0–7.5, GH 2–12) at 27–31°C with very strong oxygenation and directional flow. Feed primarily protein-rich carnivore foods: frozen shrimp, mussels, sinking carnivore pellets — this species is more carnivorous than most plecos. Perform large water changes weekly. Provide an individual cave to prevent territorial stress.