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L183 Starlight Pleco (Ancistrus dolichopterus) 1.5cm

L183 Starlight Pleco (Ancistrus dolichopterus) 1.5cm

L183 Starlight Pleco (Ancistrus dolichopterus), also called White Seam Pleco or Starlight Bristlenose Pleco, is a stunning and sought-after species in the aquarium hobby.

Appearance

  • Body Color: Jet black with tiny white spots resembling stars.
  • Distinctive Feature: Bright white edging on dorsal and caudal fins (the “white seam”).
  • Size: Typically 4–5 inches (10–13 cm), making it smaller than many other plecos.
  • Sexual Dimorphism: Males develop prominent bristles on their snouts; females have fewer or smaller ones. 

Origin & Habitat

  • Native to Brazil’s Rio Negro and other tannin-rich waters of the Amazon Basin.
  • Prefers warm, acidic, slow-moving waters with driftwood and hiding spots. 

Tank Requirements

  • Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons for an adult.
  • Temperature: 76–82°F (24–28°C).
  • pH: 5.5–7.0 (slightly acidic).
  • Hardness: Soft water (GH 2–10).
  • Filtration: Strong filtration with good oxygenation; gentle flow.
  • Décor: Provide driftwood, caves, and shaded areas for hiding. Soft sand or smooth gravel substrate recommended. 

Diet

  • Primarily herbivorous: algae wafers, spirulina, blanched vegetables (zucchini, cucumber, spinach).
  • Supplement with occasional protein (bloodworms, brine shrimp).
  • Driftwood is essential for grazing and digestion. 

Behavior & Compatibility

  • Peaceful and shy; nocturnal by nature.
  • Can be territorial with other bottom dwellers if space is limited.
  • Best tank mates: small, peaceful fish like tetras, rasboras, corydoras, and dwarf cichlids. Avoid aggressive or very large species. 

Breeding

  • Cave spawners: males guard eggs until hatching.
  • Eggs hatch in about 5–7 days; fry feed on biofilm and algae initially.
  • Soft, slightly acidic water and stable conditions encourage breeding.

Quick Facts

  • Lifespan: 5–7 years (up to 14 years reported with excellent care).
  • Common Names: Starlight Pleco, White Seam Pleco, Starlight Bushymouth Catfish.
  • Role: Excellent algae eater and adds striking beauty to aquariums. 
$12.48

Original: $35.66

-65%
L183 Starlight Pleco (Ancistrus dolichopterus) 1.5cm—

$35.66

$12.48
Product image 1

Description

L183 Starlight Pleco (Ancistrus dolichopterus), also called White Seam Pleco or Starlight Bristlenose Pleco, is a stunning and sought-after species in the aquarium hobby.

Appearance

  • Body Color: Jet black with tiny white spots resembling stars.
  • Distinctive Feature: Bright white edging on dorsal and caudal fins (the “white seam”).
  • Size: Typically 4–5 inches (10–13 cm), making it smaller than many other plecos.
  • Sexual Dimorphism: Males develop prominent bristles on their snouts; females have fewer or smaller ones. 

Origin & Habitat

  • Native to Brazil’s Rio Negro and other tannin-rich waters of the Amazon Basin.
  • Prefers warm, acidic, slow-moving waters with driftwood and hiding spots. 

Tank Requirements

  • Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons for an adult.
  • Temperature: 76–82°F (24–28°C).
  • pH: 5.5–7.0 (slightly acidic).
  • Hardness: Soft water (GH 2–10).
  • Filtration: Strong filtration with good oxygenation; gentle flow.
  • Décor: Provide driftwood, caves, and shaded areas for hiding. Soft sand or smooth gravel substrate recommended. 

Diet

  • Primarily herbivorous: algae wafers, spirulina, blanched vegetables (zucchini, cucumber, spinach).
  • Supplement with occasional protein (bloodworms, brine shrimp).
  • Driftwood is essential for grazing and digestion. 

Behavior & Compatibility

  • Peaceful and shy; nocturnal by nature.
  • Can be territorial with other bottom dwellers if space is limited.
  • Best tank mates: small, peaceful fish like tetras, rasboras, corydoras, and dwarf cichlids. Avoid aggressive or very large species. 

Breeding

  • Cave spawners: males guard eggs until hatching.
  • Eggs hatch in about 5–7 days; fry feed on biofilm and algae initially.
  • Soft, slightly acidic water and stable conditions encourage breeding.

Quick Facts

  • Lifespan: 5–7 years (up to 14 years reported with excellent care).
  • Common Names: Starlight Pleco, White Seam Pleco, Starlight Bushymouth Catfish.
  • Role: Excellent algae eater and adds striking beauty to aquariums.