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L168

Description

The L168 pleco, also known as the butterfly pleco or flash pleco, is a species of catfish that is native to the Xingu River in Brazil. It is a small to medium-sized pleco, reaching a maximum size of around 5 inches (12 cm) in length, making it a suitable choice for smaller aquariums.

The L168 pleco has a distinctive and striking appearance, with a light brown or beige body and dark brown or black stripes that run horizontally along its sides. Its fins are also adorned with black and white spots, adding to its unique and eye-catching appearance.

In the aquarium, the L168 pleco is known for being relatively hardy and adaptable, and it can be a good choice for aquarists with some experience keeping freshwater fish. It prefers water with a neutral to slightly acidic pH and temperatures between 75-82°F (24-28°C). It also requires plenty of hiding places, such as caves or driftwood, to provide a sense of security and privacy.

The L168 pleco is an omnivorous species and will accept a variety of foods, including algae wafers, sinking pellets, and fresh or blanched vegetables. It is also known to eat some types of live foods, such as bloodworms or brine shrimp.

One of the most interesting aspects of the L168 pleco is its behavior. It is a peaceful and generally non-aggressive fish, but it is also known for being active and playful. It may engage in playful behaviors such as flipping upside down, hiding in crevices, or exploring its environment.

Overall, the L168 pleco is a unique and visually striking catfish that can be a good choice for aquarists looking for a smaller and relatively hardy species. Its playful and active behavior, as well as its distinctive appearance, make it a popular choice among freshwater aquarium hobbyists.

L168

Product form

SKU: L168

Out of stock

$99.95


All prices include GST
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    Description

    The L168 pleco, also known as the butterfly pleco or flash pleco, is a species of catfish that is native to the Xingu River in Brazil. It is a small to medium-sized pleco, reaching a maximum size of around 5 inches (12 cm) in length, making it a suitable choice for smaller aquariums.

    The L168 pleco has a distinctive and striking appearance, with a light brown or beige body and dark brown or black stripes that run horizontally along its sides. Its fins are also adorned with black and white spots, adding to its unique and eye-catching appearance.

    In the aquarium, the L168 pleco is known for being relatively hardy and adaptable, and it can be a good choice for aquarists with some experience keeping freshwater fish. It prefers water with a neutral to slightly acidic pH and temperatures between 75-82°F (24-28°C). It also requires plenty of hiding places, such as caves or driftwood, to provide a sense of security and privacy.

    The L168 pleco is an omnivorous species and will accept a variety of foods, including algae wafers, sinking pellets, and fresh or blanched vegetables. It is also known to eat some types of live foods, such as bloodworms or brine shrimp.

    One of the most interesting aspects of the L168 pleco is its behavior. It is a peaceful and generally non-aggressive fish, but it is also known for being active and playful. It may engage in playful behaviors such as flipping upside down, hiding in crevices, or exploring its environment.

    Overall, the L168 pleco is a unique and visually striking catfish that can be a good choice for aquarists looking for a smaller and relatively hardy species. Its playful and active behavior, as well as its distinctive appearance, make it a popular choice among freshwater aquarium hobbyists.

    Live Arrival & Ordering FAQ

    Do you offer a live arrival guarantee?

    Yes. All livestock is covered by our Live Arrival Guarantee.

    In the rare event of DOA, please contact us promptly with clear photos of the livestock in the original unopened bag.

    Please review our full DOA and store policies before purchase.

    Can you ship to all states in Australia?

    No. Due to state restrictions, we cannot ship livestock or live plants to WA and TAS.

    What should I check before ordering?

    Before placing an order, make sure:

    • Your tank is fully cycled and stable
    • Your aquarium has enough space for the species
    • Your current livestock are compatible in temperament, size, and requirements
    • Your water parameters, habitat, and temperature suit the species
    • You are not adding too many fish at once
    What should I expect when my fish arrives?

    It is normal for fish, shrimp, or snails to look pale, stressed, or less active after shipping.

    This is temporary. Most livestock will settle and regain colour within a few days.

    How long does it take for fish to settle in?

    Most livestock will take 3–7 days to fully adjust to their new environment.

    Should I feed my fish immediately after arrival?

    No. We recommend waiting 24 hours before feeding to allow them to settle.

    If you already have fish in your tank, feeding them before introducing new arrivals can help reduce stress.

    Why do fish sometimes struggle after being added to a tank?

    In most cases, issues are caused by tank conditions, not shipping.

    • Uncycled or unstable tanks
    • Poor water parameters
    • Overstocking
    • Unsuitable tank mates
    What is Nano Tanks Australia’s main tip for new livestock?

    Most livestock losses happen in immature or unstable tanks, not during shipping.

    If your setup is not fully established, the risk to new arrivals is significantly higher.

    Not sure if this fish is right for your setup?

    If you are unsure whether this species suits your setup, contact us before ordering and we’ll help point you in the right direction.

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