Xikrin Plecostomus L171

An armoured South American loricariid currently identified as Hopliancistrus xikrin. Colour, spot size, bands, fin markings, and body proportions separate similar L-number forms.

Use the L-number identification L171 together with the current assignment Hopliancistrus xikrin. Do not merge it with visually similar forms without matching collection locality and diagnostic features.

Mature males usually develop a broader head and stronger cheek or pectoral odontodes. Females are generally fuller through the abdomen when carrying eggs.

Provide at least 100 litres and a tank length of about 80 cm or more. Use strong biological filtration, high gas exchange, stable hardscape, multiple caves, and clear feeding areas. Prevent waste from accumulating beneath wood and rocks.

Primarily nocturnal or crepuscular and closely associated with caves, rock, wood, and the substrate.

Can be kept singly. A pair or group requires several appropriately sized caves and enough floor area for every adult to feed without being trapped.

Mature males commonly defend caves and favoured feeding areas from similarly shaped loricariids.

Choose peaceful fish with matching temperature and current needs. Avoid crowding territorial plecos into the same floor area, and do not combine large predatory forms with small or delicate bottom dwellers.

Maintain stable clean water with strong oxygenation. Warm water, protein-rich food, wood waste, and crowded hardscape can rapidly reduce oxygen and degrade water quality.

A protein-oriented omnivore or predator requiring aquatic animal foods and a balanced sinking diet.

Feed after lights dim and distribute food near every occupied shelter. Confirm that subordinate fish eat and remove rich leftovers before they affect water quality.

A paternal cave spawner. The female deposits adhesive eggs in a tight shelter, after which the male guards and fans the clutch and yolk-sac fry. Successful breeding requires a correctly sized cave, clean oxygen-rich water, and compatible adults.