Our Guide To Keeping L091 Three Beacon Pleco
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About Fish Species:
- Scientific name: Leporacanthicus triactis
- Common name: L091 Three Beacon Pleco
- Family: Loricariidae
- Origin: South America, specifically Venezuela
- Adult length: 25 cm (10 inches)
- Lifespan: 10 to 15 years
- Diet: Omnivore
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Semi-aggressive
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Tank Setup:
- The L091 Three Beacon Pleco requires a spacious tank with plenty of hiding spots such as caves, driftwood, and rocky structures.
- A sandy or fine gravel substrate is recommended, along with smooth surfaces to prevent injury to their sensitive bodies.
- They prefer a well-structured aquascape with crevices and shaded areas to retreat into during the day.
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Water Parameters:
- pH Range: 6.5 to 7.5
- Water Temperature: 25 to 30°C (77 to 86°F)
- Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard
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Filtration and Water Flow:
- A strong filtration system is essential to maintain high water quality, as these fish produce a significant amount of waste.
- Moderate to strong water flow is ideal, mimicking their natural river habitats.
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Diet:
- The L091 Three Beacon Pleco is an omnivore that requires a varied diet, including sinking pellets, algae wafers, and fresh vegetables such as zucchini, cucumber, and spinach.
- Protein-rich foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and pieces of fish or shrimp should be offered occasionally.
- They are not strict algae eaters, so a balanced diet with both plant and protein-based foods is essential.
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Tank mates:
- They can be territorial, especially towards other bottom-dwelling species, so tank mates should be chosen carefully.
- Compatible tank mates include peaceful to semi-aggressive fish such as larger tetras, cichlids (not overly aggressive ones), and other similarly-sized plecos.
- Avoid housing them with overly aggressive or highly territorial fish that may cause stress or competition.
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Behavior and Compatibility:
- They are primarily nocturnal, meaning they will be most active during the night.
- Territorial behavior is common, especially towards other bottom-dwellers, so providing multiple hiding spots can help reduce aggression.
- It is best to keep only one per tank unless there is sufficient space to accommodate multiple individuals without conflicts.