Common Name: L350 Imperial Pleco
Scientific Name: Peckoltia pankimpuju
Other Names: L350
The L350 Imperial Pleco is a wild-caught Peckoltia from Peru. It is a Peckoltia with the compact, armored body and sucker mouth typical of the genus.
Habitat and Distribution:
Peckoltia pankimpuju is native to the upper Amazon drainage of Peru, where these plecos live among driftwood and rocks in flowing water. These habitats provide plenty of surfaces for grazing and crevices for shelter, and the flowing water keeps oxygen levels high.
Size and Lifespan:
Adults reach about 6-8 inches (15-20 cm). Most plecos of this size live 10 years or more with good care.
Diet and Behavior:
It is omnivorous and feeds on small invertebrates, algae and detritus in the wild. In the aquarium, offer sinking pellets, vegetables and frozen foods. It is peaceful toward other fish but territorial with other plecos. Feed a varied diet and remove uneaten food promptly to protect water quality.
Breeding and Reproduction:
Plecos of this type are cave spawners. The female lays a clutch of eggs inside a cave or crevice, and the male guards and fans the eggs and then the newly hatched fry until they are ready to leave. Providing several caves, excellent water quality and good water movement gives the best chance of spawning.
Aquarium Care and Tank Requirements:
A tank of at least 55 gallons is recommended. Provide plenty of driftwood, caves and rockwork, a sand or fine gravel substrate, and efficient filtration with good water movement and high oxygen levels. Regular water changes are essential to maintain water quality. The water temperature should be kept between 75-82°F (24-28°C), with a pH of 6.0-7.5 and soft to moderately hard water. New arrivals should be acclimated slowly.
Ideal Tank Mates:
They can be kept with a wide range of peaceful community fish, such as tetras, rasboras, corydoras, dwarf cichlids and other small catfish. Provide a cave for each pleco and avoid housing them with large, aggressive species that may stress or injure them. As with any aquarium, introduce new fish carefully and watch for signs of stress or aggression.
Difficulty Level:
Intermediate. It is hardy once settled, but needs clean, well-oxygenated water and plenty of cover. It is well suited to aquarists with some experience who can maintain stable water conditions.
Water Parameters:
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Temperature: 75-82°F (24-28°C)
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pH: 6.0-7.5
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General Hardness (GH): 2-10 dGH
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Carbonate Hardness (KH): 2-6 dKH
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Ammonia: 0 ppm
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Nitrite: 0 ppm
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Nitrate: <20 ppm (regular water changes required)
Additional Information:
- Like other Peckoltia, it appreciates driftwood, caves and good water movement.
- It is most active in the evening, which is the best time to feed.
- Provide a cave for each pleco to reduce territorial disputes.
The L350 Imperial Pleco is an attractive, uncommon Peckoltia for pleco collectors. With the right setup and care, it will be a rewarding addition for many years.
