Para Pleco L026

The Para Pleco (L026) is a large, robust loricariid from the lower Amazon state of Pará in Brazil. Its body bears an attractive reticulated pattern of dark brown and black over a lighter tan base, and it grows to a substantial size. Despite its eventual large adult size, it is one of the more manageable large plecos, adapting well to aquarium life.

L026 is a dedicated herbivore and algae grazer, consuming large quantities of biofilm and soft algae from surfaces. Supplement its diet with spirulina wafers, algae pellets, and a variety of blanched vegetables including zucchini, cucumber, and leafy greens. Large pieces of driftwood provide essential nutrition and resting areas.

As with most large loricariids, L026 requires a spacious, powerfully filtered aquarium. It is generally peaceful with most tankmates but needs sufficient space to establish a territory. Compatible with large cichlids, robust catfish, and other large-bodied South American species. Avoid housing with similarly sized plecos unless the tank is very large.

Water: pH 6.0–7.5, temperature 24–28°C, GH 2–15, KH 1–10; tolerant and adaptable. Tank: 300 L minimum; large driftwood, rock caves, powerful canister filtration. Feeding: Herbivore; spirulina wafers, algae pellets, blanched zucchini, cucumber, leafy greens. Breeding: Cave spawner; large aquaria with conditioning required; infrequently achieved. Compatibility: Peaceful with large, robust species; may be territorial toward other large plecos.