Spotted medusa pleco - Ancistrus sp. L255

Scientific name: Ancistrus sp. L255

Common name: Spotted medusa pleco

Family: Loricariidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 14 - 16 cm (5.51 - 6.3 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 6 - 8

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 8 - 14°N (142.86 - 250ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 27 - 30 °C (80.6 - 86°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: South America

Temperament to its own species: peaceful

Temperament toward other fish species: peaceful

Usual place in the tank: Bottom levels

Food and feeding

Spotted medusa pleco does well on cucumber, romaine lettuce, shrimp pellets, and spinach. Offer occasional treats of blood worm and Tubifex.

Origin

South America; Spotted medusa pleco’s inhabit the rivers and tributaries.

Sexing

Males have more bristles on their heads and the females are often smaller.

Breeding

PVC piping makes a good spawning site for Ancistrus sp. L255. The female will spread her fins and lay her eggs inside, after this the male will tend the eggs fanning the water. The male will protect the eggs which should hatch 4-5 days later. The fry will venture out a few days after that. They should be fed initially on newly hatched brine shrimp.

Lifespan

The expected life span of Ancistrus sp. L255 is 12- 14 years.

Short description

Spotted medusa pleco’s are a shy and timid fish, tank mates should be chosen carefully. Slow moving cichlids or charachins are ideal. Hiding places should be added to the tank as they tend to hide away during the daytime.

Pictures

Bought by aqua-fish.net from jjphoto.dk.