Species profile
L015 Candy Striped Pleco
Peckoltia vittata
Peaceful
Moderate care
180 L minimum aquarium
10–15 cm adult size
Bottom
Can be kept singly
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Maximum size corrected upward: FishBase records 15 cm TL and ScotCat identifies L015 as Peckoltia vittata.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
26–30 °C
pH
6–7.5
GH
2–20 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Moderate–high
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Can be kept singly
Tank zone
Bottom
Territory level
Moderate
Predation risk
None
Bioload factor
1.5
Mostly peaceful but territorial around preferred shelters; provide multiple caves.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Yes
Shrimp safe
Yes
Snail safe
Yes
Cave breeder
Yes
Digs substrate
No
Jump risk
Low
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
Not yet documented
Diet type
Omnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
180 L
Minimum footprint
100 × 40 cm
Accepted scientific name
Peckoltia vittata
Alternative names
Candy Striped Peckoltia, Candy Stripe Pleco, L015
Native range
Middle and lower Amazon basin, including Madeira, Xingu, Tapajós and associated drainages.
Natural habitat
Nocturnal river loricariid associated with rock/wood cover. Provide caves, driftwood, clean warm water and good oxygenation.
Diet & feeding
Algae/plant material forms part of the diet; supplement with quality sinking foods and invertebrate foods.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Mature males typically develop stronger odontodes and broader head shape.
Breeding
Cave-spawning loricariid; male guards eggs in a shelter.