All fish / Loricariidae

Peckoltia cavatica

Peckoltia cavatica

Also known as l-numbered peckoltia, dwarf pleco, clown pleco

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This is a small suckermouth catfish with a dark body crossed by pale yellowish saddles and bands, typical of the Peckoltia group. It stays small, so people keep it for its neat pattern and because it suits medium community tanks with driftwood and rockwork.

Care at a glance

Care level

Moderate

Temperament

Peaceful

Adult size

9 cm

Temperature

25 to 30 °C

pH

6 to 7.5

Smallest tank

80 litres

Keep as

Single or a small group with plenty of caves

Diet

Omnivore: sinking pellets and wafers, frozen bloodworm and brine shrimp, some vegetables, soft wood

Swims

Bottom of the tank

Lifespan

8 to 12 years

Water

Freshwater

Wild range

Upper Amazon basin, Brazil (Rio Japurá/Caquetá and Rio Solimões area)

Breeding

It is a cave spawner, and the male guards the eggs and larvae inside a tight cave or pipe. Captive breeding is possible in warm, clean, well-oxygenated water but is not often reported.

Good to know

Peckoltia species are hard to tell apart and are often sold under L-numbers or mixed names, so identification can be uncertain. Males can squabble over caves, so give each one its own hiding spot.