Here’s a care guide for Butterfly Plecos (L168, L169, L170, and other members of the Dekeyseria genus) in bullet points:
Tank Setup:
- Tank Size: A 30-gallon tank is suitable for a single Butterfly Pleco, but a larger tank offers more space.
- Substrate: Use fine sand or smooth gravel to protect their delicate barbels.
- Hiding Spots: Provide hiding spots with driftwood, caves, and PVC pipes. They appreciate places to retreat to during the day.
Water Conditions:
- Temperature: Maintain water temperature between 75-82°F (24-28°C).
- pH Level: Keep the pH between 6.5 and 7.5.
- Water Hardness: Maintain moderate water hardness (6-12 dGH).
- Filtration: Use a good-quality filter to ensure water quality and aeration.
Diet:
- Herbivorous: Butterfly Plecos are primarily herbivores.
- Algae Wafers: Provide high-quality algae wafers as a staple in their diet.
- Fresh Vegetables: Offer occasional fresh vegetables like zucchini or cucumber.
- Supplements: You can include a small amount of protein-rich food like high-quality pellets occasionally.
Tank Mates:
- Peaceful Community Fish: Butterfly Plecos are peaceful and can coexist with other non-aggressive fish species.
- Avoid Aggressive Species: Avoid keeping them with aggressive or fin-nipping fish.
Behavior and Activity:
- Nocturnal: Butterfly Plecos are nocturnal and are most active during the night.
- Shy Fish: They are generally shy and prefer to stay hidden during the day.
Tank Decor:
- Plants and Decor: Provide live or artificial plants, driftwood, and caves for hiding spots.
- Dim Lighting: Use dim or subdued lighting to create a comfortable environment for them.
Health and Disease:
- Quarantine New Fish: Quarantine any new additions to the tank to prevent disease outbreaks.
- Monitor Health: Keep an eye out for signs of stress or disease, such as loss of appetite, rapid breathing, or unusual behavior.
Breeding:
- Breeding Difficulty: Breeding Butterfly Plecos can be challenging and requires specific conditions.
Butterfly Plecos are beautiful and unique fish that require special care to thrive. By creating a suitable environment with hiding spots and meeting their dietary and water quality needs, you can ensure their well-being and enjoy their intriguing behavior in your aquarium.
