Spotted Pleco L109

The Spotted Pleco (L109) is a large, robust loricariid from southern Amazon tributaries in Brazil. Its body is densely covered in well-defined dark brown to black spots on a lighter base, giving it an impressive, classic pleco appearance. This species is one of the more undemanding medium-to-large L-numbers, adapting well to a range of aquarium conditions and proving popular with beginner pleco enthusiasts.

L109 is a dedicated herbivore that grazes extensively on algae and biofilm. Provide spirulina wafers, algae pellets, blanched vegetables, and large driftwood as the core diet. Its large adult size demands powerful filtration and regular large water changes to maintain water quality. Despite its eventual size, it is a peaceful and unassuming tankmate that coexists well with most robust community fish.

The Spotted Pleco is suitable for large community aquariums with South American cichlids, larger tetras, and other loricariids. One large cave or driftwood structure per specimen prevents territorial disputes. A reliable, long-lived species that can anchor the bottom tier of any large South American display aquarium.

Water: pH 6.0–7.5, temperature 24–28°C, GH 2–18, KH 1–10; adaptable and forgiving of minor fluctuations. Tank: 220 L minimum; large driftwood, rock caves, powerful canister filtration. Feeding: Herbivore; spirulina wafers, algae pellets, blanched vegetables, large driftwood. Breeding: Cave spawner; very large, well-established aquarium required for breeding. Compatibility: Peaceful; excellent long-term community fish for large South American aquariums.