Polka-dot Vampire Plecostomus L133

A robust vampire pleco with a dark body covered in yellow to cream spots. The large head, strong teeth and heavy build reflect a diet that includes substantial animal food.

Use the L-number identification L133 together with the current assignment Scobinancistrus pariolispos. Do not merge it with visually similar forms without matching collection locality and diagnostic features.

Mature males generally develop a broader head and stronger cheek and pectoral odontodes. Females become fuller through the abdomen, but juveniles are difficult to sex.

Provide a spacious, warm and highly oxygenated aquarium with powerful filtration, rockwork and large secure caves. Strong feeding and a substantial adult body create a high waste load.

Mostly nocturnal, predatory and territorial around food and shelter. Adults may become forceful toward other large plecos.

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.

Use robust midwater companions and avoid ornamental snails, shrimp, fry and delicate bottom fish. Other loricariids require exceptional floor space and separate caves.

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.

Feed a carnivore-leaning diet with quality sinking pellets, crustacean, mollusc and insect foods, plus some vegetable matter. It is not an algae-control fish.

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.

Captive breeding is uncommon and poorly documented. A male-guarded cave is expected, but adult compatibility, large shelters and excellent water quality make reproduction advanced.