Species profile
Vampire Pleco
Leporacanthicus galaxias
Semi aggressive
Hard care
350 L minimum aquarium
18–23 cm adult size
Bottom
Can be kept singly
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Requires powerful filtration and oxygenation. Do not buy it as a generic algae-eating pleco.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
25–29 °C
pH
5.5–7.5
GH
2–12 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
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
High
Predation risk
Shrimp snails
Bioload factor
4
Large territorial loricariid that is usually indifferent to midwater fish but may fight strongly with other bottom-dwelling plecos over caves.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Yes
Shrimp safe
No / caution
Snail safe
No / caution
Cave breeder
Yes
Digs substrate
No
Jump risk
Low
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
10–15 years
Diet type
Carnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
350 L
Minimum footprint
150 × 50 cm
Accepted scientific name
Leporacanthicus galaxias
Alternative names
Vampire Pleco, Galaxy Pleco, L007, L029
Native range
Brazilian and Venezuelan Amazon/Orinoco-associated drainages, including fast rocky river sections.
Natural habitat
Rocky rapids and fast current with very high oxygenation and secure crevices.
Diet & feeding
Predominantly invertebrate/meaty diet: crustaceans, molluscs and other animal foods. Use quality carnivore wafers/pellets plus frozen foods; not an algae eater.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Adult males develop stronger odontodes and broader heads/pectoral regions; females are generally fuller through the abdomen.
Breeding
Cave-spawning loricariid; the male guards and fans eggs/fry in a defended cavity.