The L183 Starlight Pleco (Ancistrus dolichopterus) is a popular, small freshwater catfish (max 4-5 inches) known for its dark, almost black body covered in white spots and white, bordered seams on its dorsal and tail fins. Primarily nocturnal, they require driftwood, caves, and clean, soft, acidic water (pH 6–7).
Key Information for L183 Starlight Plecos:
Diet: Primarily herbivorous. Requires a diet of algae wafers, blanched vegetables (zucchini, cucumber), and wood biofilm.
Appearance: They are frequently confused with L181/Peppermint Plecos; however, true L183s retain white seams on their fins as adults, while others may lose them. They also have 9-10 soft rays in their dorsal fin, differentiating them from other species.
Tank Setup: Sensitive to poor water quality. Requires plenty of hiding spots, such as driftwood and caves, and good water movement.
Breeding: They are cave spawners. The male guards the eggs and fry.
Temperament: Generally peaceful, though they can be territorial with other similar bottom-dwellers.
They are often considered an excellent algae-eating addition to specialized, planted, or tropical community aquariums, particularly when kept in groups.
SKU: RBM
