The L264 Sultan Pleco is a stunning species from Brazil’s Rio Tapajós, prized for its velvety gray-white body, dark edging, and elegant finnage. This medium-sized pleco thrives in warm, clean, oxygen-rich water with moderate to strong flow and plenty of caves, rocks, and driftwood for shelter. Ideal water conditions include a temperature of 78–86°F (25–30°C), slightly acidic to neutral pH, and soft to moderately hard water. The Sultan Pleco is primarily carnivorous, enjoying a varied diet of sinking carnivore pellets, bloodworms, brine shrimp, and occasional vegetables. Peaceful but somewhat territorial toward other bottom dwellers, it does best in a spacious aquarium with good filtration and regular water changes. With proper care, this regal species can live 8–10 years and reach up to 7 inches in length.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Leproacanthicus joselimai |
| Common Name | Sultan Pleco, L264 Pleco |
| Origin | Rio Tapajós, Brazil |
| Size | Up to 7 inches (18 cm) |
| Lifespan | 8–10 years |
| Tank Size | Minimum 50 gallons |
| Temperature | 78–86°F (25–30°C) |
| pH Range | 6.2–7.6 |
| Hardness | 3–12 dGH |
| Diet | Carnivorous; sinking pellets, bloodworms, shrimp, occasional veggies |
| Temperament | Peaceful, mildly territorial with other plecos |
| Tank Setup | Rocks, caves, driftwood, moderate to strong flow, soft substrate |
| Compatibility | Good with peaceful mid- and top-dwelling species |
| Special Care | Needs pristine, oxygen-rich water and strong filtration |