Orange-seam Pleco L106

The Orange-seam Pleco L106 is a second, geographically distinct orange-seam population collected from the Rio Araguaia drainage of central Brazil, differentiated from L056 by its slightly broader orange fin edging and a coarser, more widely spaced reticulated body pattern. Collectors prize these geographic variants for the subtle but genuine differences they display.

Care requirements closely mirror those for L056 and other orange-seam type plecos. L106 is an omnivore that accepts algae wafers, blanched vegetables, sinking pellets, driftwood, and occasional protein supplements. Warm, clean water with moderate to strong flow maintains the bright orange fin colouration. Driftwood is an important element for both shelter and supplemental nutrition.

L106 is moderately peaceful and integrates well into larger South American community aquariums. It may be territorial around caves, particularly toward conspecifics and other medium-sized plecos. House with one cave per individual and pair with large tetras, Araguaia cichlids, or other appropriate biotope species for a natural and harmonious display.

Water: pH 6.0–7.5, temperature 24–28°C, GH 2–15, KH 1–8; moderate flow, regular water changes. Tank: 160 L minimum; driftwood, smooth rock caves, moderate to strong current. Feeding: Omnivore; algae wafers, blanched veg, sinking pellets, driftwood, occasional frozen protein. Breeding: Cave spawner; conditioning and water changes may trigger spawning. Compatibility: Moderately peaceful; territorial with conspecifics; good with mid-level community species.