Orinoco Peppermint Pleco L175

Hemiancistrus sp. L175 is a closely related and similarly patterned companion to L136 within the peppermint pleco complex of Venezuelan Orinoco tributaries. Its dark body is covered in a scattering of clean white to pale cream dots that collectively create the peppermint-candy appearance, though L175 tends to have slightly larger and more spaced spots than L136. It is a slender, active species reaching approximately 14 cm.

Care requirements closely mirror those of L136: warm water (25–29°C), soft to moderately hard conditions, moderate flow, and a cave-rich aquarium. It is omnivorous and accepts a broad diet including algae wafers, Repashy, bloodworms, and brine shrimp. Males are territorial toward each other near cave sites but peaceful with all other species.

The L175 is a rewarding breeding species in captivity, following the standard Hypancistrus-style cave-spawning pattern with paternal egg guarding. It makes an excellent community loricariid for aquarists who want a more unusual peppermint pleco than the commonly available LDA081 forms.

Water: 25–29°C, pH 5.5–7.0, soft to moderately hard; moderate to strong flow with good oxygenation. Tank: Minimum 120 L; rocks, clay or PVC caves (one per male), driftwood. Feeding: Omnivore; algae wafers, Repashy, bloodworms, brine shrimp, blanched vegetables. Breeding: Cave spawner; male guards eggs; moderately achievable with stable warm conditions. Compatibility: Peaceful with community fish; males territorial toward each other near caves.