STARLIGHT BRISTLENOSE PLECO L183 ( ANCISTRUS DOLICHOPTERUS)
Starlight Pleco (L183), also known as the White Seam Pleco or Starlight Bristlenose Pleco, is a stunning freshwater catfish species renowned for its deep black body covered in bright white spots and distinctive white edging on its dorsal and caudal fins. Native to the slow-moving, tannin-rich waters of the Amazon River Basin, particularly in Brazil, this peaceful and hardy pleco is highly sought after by aquarists.
Appearance
Body Color: Jet black with tiny, star-like white spots covering its entire body.
Fin Features: The dorsal and caudal fins have bright white edges, which contrast beautifully against the dark body.
Size: Typically grows to 4.5–5 inches (11–13 cm), making it smaller than many other plecos and ideal for mid-sized aquariums.
Bristles: Males develop prominent bristles on their snouts, while females have fewer or smaller ones.
Tank Requirements
Tank Size: Minimum 30 gallons for a single adult.
Water Parameters:
Temperature: 77–82°F (25–28°C)
pH: 5.5–7.0 (Prefers slightly acidic water)
GH: 2–10
KH: 1–4
Filtration: Strong filtration with a gentle flow is recommended, as they thrive in well-oxygenated waters.
Substrate: Soft sand or smooth gravel to prevent injury.
Hiding Spots: Provide plenty of driftwood, caves, and dense plants for hiding and grazing. They are nocturnal and prefer shaded areas.
Diet
Starlight Plecos are primarily herbivorous but also consume protein-based foods.
Staple Foods: High-quality algae wafers, spirulina, and blanched vegetables (zucchini, cucumber, spinach).
Supplementary Foods: Occasional protein-rich foods like bloodworms or brine shrimp.
Wood Requirement: They require driftwood in their tank, as they graze on biofilm and fibers that aid digestion.
Behavior & Compatibility
Temperament: Peaceful and shy, but can be territorial with other bottom-dwellers if space is limited.
Tank Mates: Compatible with peaceful community fish such as tetras, rasboras, corydoras, and dwarf cichlids. Avoid aggressive or overly large tankmates.
Breeding
Egg Layers: They are cave spawners, with males guarding the eggs until they hatch.
Water Conditions: A soft, slightly acidic environment with stable water parameters encourages breeding.
Hatching Time: Eggs hatch in about 5–7 days, and the fry consume biofilm and algae initially.
Conclusion
The Starlight Pleco (L183) is a beautiful, small-sized pleco that adds elegance to any aquarium with its starry white spots and distinctive fin markings. Its peaceful nature, algae-eating benefits, and unique appearance make it a fantastic choice for aquarists looking for an eye-catching yet functional fish in a well-maintained freshwater tank