Orange-finned Pleco L102

The Orange-finned Pleco (L102) is a striking loricariid from the Rio Tocantins basin of central Brazil. Its most eye-catching feature is the brilliant orange-tipped fin colouration — visible on the dorsal, pectoral, and caudal fins — which provides vivid contrast against a dark-spotted, grey-brown body. The intensity of this orange pigmentation is directly related to water quality and diet.

L102 is an omnivore that benefits from a varied diet rich in both plant and protein material. Offer algae wafers, sinking pellets, blanched vegetables, driftwood, and occasional frozen protein foods such as bloodworm or brine shrimp. Warm water with moderate to strong flow and very regular water changes are essential to maintain the spectacular fin colouration. Any deterioration in water quality is quickly reflected in fading orange tones.

The Orange-finned Pleco is moderately peaceful and fits well into larger community aquariums. It may show territorial behaviour around caves, particularly toward other medium plecos, so ensure one dedicated cave per individual. Compatible with larger tetras, eartheaters, South American cichlids, and other Tocantins-region biotope species.

Water: pH 6.0–7.2, temperature 25–29°C, GH 2–12, KH 1–6; very clean water preserves orange fin colour. Tank: 160 L minimum; driftwood, rock caves, moderate to strong current. Feeding: Omnivore; algae wafers, blanched veg, sinking pellets, driftwood, frozen bloodworm. Breeding: Cave spawner; water change conditioning and protein-rich diet may trigger spawning. Compatibility: Moderately peaceful; territorial with other medium plecos over caves.