Description
L106 – Spotted Orange Seam Pleco – Hemiancistrus guahiborum
Introduction:
The Spotted Orange Seam Pleco (Hemiancistrus guahiborum), also known as L106, is a visually striking pleco species. Its dark body is adorned with small white spots, and the orange edges of its dorsal and caudal fins make it a standout in any aquarium. Growing to a manageable size of 5–6 inches (12–15 cm), this species is ideal for mid-sized tanks and appeals to hobbyists looking for a unique and relatively peaceful pleco.
1. Natural Habitat and Behavior
Native to the Orinoco River basin in Venezuela, the Spotted Orange Seam Pleco inhabits rocky riverbeds with strong currents. It spends most of its time attached to surfaces, using its specialized mouthparts to graze on algae and biofilm. While relatively shy, it is active during the evening and night, making it a fascinating species for aquarists who enjoy observing nocturnal behaviors.
2. Aquarium Setup
- Tank Size: Minimum of 40 gallons (150 liters) for a single adult; larger tanks are recommended for multiple individuals or community setups.
- Substrate: Smooth gravel or sand to mimic riverbed conditions.
- Decor: Provide plenty of driftwood, caves, and smooth rocks for hiding and grazing surfaces.
- Water Conditions:
- Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)
- pH: 6.0–7.5
- Hardness: 2–12 dGH
- Filtration: Strong filtration and moderate water flow to replicate its natural habitat.
- Lighting: Moderate to low lighting; dim settings encourage more activity during viewing hours.
3. Diet and Feeding
Spotted Orange Seam Plecos are omnivorous with a preference for algae-based diets.
- Preferred Foods: Algae wafers and sinking pellets designed for plecos.
- Supplemental Foods: Blanched vegetables like zucchini, cucumber, and spinach.
- Protein: Occasionally offer bloodworms, brine shrimp, or shrimp-based pellets.
- Feeding Tips: Feed once or twice daily, ensuring the food reaches their preferred grazing areas.
4. Compatibility with Other Fish
- Tank Mates: Peaceful community fish such as tetras, rasboras, and other plecos or bottom-dwellers.
- Avoid: Territorial or aggressive species, as well as other plecos that may compete for hiding spots.
- Behavior: While generally peaceful, they can show territoriality toward other bottom-dwelling fish, especially if hiding spaces are limited.
5. Common Challenges and Tips
- Hiding Spaces: Ensure plenty of caves and decor to prevent stress or aggression.
- Water Quality: Sensitive to poor water conditions, so maintain excellent filtration and perform regular water changes.
- Feeding Competition: In community tanks, ensure food reaches the bottom where they can access it.
- Flow and Oxygenation: As a riverine species, they thrive in well-oxygenated water with moderate flow.
Conclusion
The Spotted Orange Seam Pleco is a visually captivating and manageable pleco species, perfect for hobbyists seeking an active but relatively low-maintenance addition to their aquarium. With proper care, including a well-structured environment and a balanced diet, these plecos can thrive and provide years of enjoyment in a community or species-specific setup.
