Orinoco Peppermint Pleco L136

Hemiancistrus sp. L136, the Orinoco Peppermint Pleco, is a slender and elegantly patterned loricariid from fast-flowing Venezuelan Orinoco tributaries. Its dark body is densely covered with fine white to cream spots that create the peppermint-candy appearance from which it gets its name. It reaches approximately 15 cm and is notably more peaceful and community-compatible than many similarly sized plecos.

The Orinoco Peppermint requires warm water (25–29°C), moderate to strong flow, and clean conditions. A tank of at least 120 L with rocks, caves, and driftwood for shelter suits it well. Its omnivorous diet should include sinking algae wafers, Repashy gel foods, occasional blanched vegetables, and meaty supplements such as bloodworms.

This species is regularly bred in captivity and represents a rewarding intermediate-level breeding project. Males guard eggs in caves and are moderately territorial toward each other. It can be kept with most similarly sized community fish without issue.

Water: 25–29°C, pH 6.0–7.5, soft to moderately hard; moderate to strong flow with good oxygenation. Tank: Minimum 120 L; rocks, clay caves, driftwood; provide one cave per male. Feeding: Omnivore; algae wafers, Repashy, blanched vegetables, bloodworms, and brine shrimp. Breeding: Cave spawner; male guards eggs; moderate-difficulty breeding project; stable warm water required. Compatibility: Peaceful with community fish; mild territorial behaviour between males at cave sites.