Peckoltia compta (L134-Imperial Tiger) 3″

Peckoltia compta, commonly known as the Imperial Tiger Pleco or L134, is a striking and popular species in the aquarium hobby. Here’s a detailed overview:

• Coloration: The Imperial Tiger Pleco has a dark brown to black body with bright yellow to white stripes or spots, giving it a tiger-like appearance. This distinctive pattern is one of its most appealing features.
• Size: They typically grow to about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) in length, making them suitable for various tank sizes.

• Natural Range: Native to the rivers of South America, particularly in the Rio Xingu in Brazil, where they inhabit areas with plenty of structure and hiding spots.
• Environment: They thrive in environments with rocks, driftwood, and dense vegetation, which provide shelter and grazing areas.

• Temperament: Generally peaceful and non-aggressive, but males can be territorial, especially during breeding. It’s best to house them with similarly sized or larger tank mates.
• Activity Level: Primarily nocturnal, they are more active at night, foraging for food.

• Feeding: Peckoltia compta is primarily herbivorous, feeding on algae and biofilm. They also enjoy sinking pellets, algae wafers, and fresh vegetables like zucchini and spinach. A varied diet helps keep them healthy.

• Tank Size: A minimum tank size of 30 gallons is recommended to accommodate their swimming and hiding needs.
• Water Conditions: They prefer slightly acidic to neutral pH (around 6.5 to 7.5) and warmer temperatures (75°F to 82°F or 24°C to 28°C).
• Filtration: Good filtration is important for maintaining water quality, along with regular water changes.

• Breeding Peckoltia compta in captivity can be challenging and usually requires specific conditions, such as caves for spawning and stable water parameters.

If you’re considering adding the Imperial Tiger Pleco to your aquarium, ensure you provide a well-structured environment with plenty of hiding spots to create a comfortable and thriving habitat for this beautiful fish!