Pleco L519 (5cm) – Strikingly Patterned Hypancistrus for Peaceful Aquariums

Detailed Product Description:

The Pleco L519, scientifically classified as Hypancistrus sp., is a rare and eye-catching freshwater catfish known for its unique reticulated pattern and manageable size. At around 5cm in length, this juvenile pleco is already showing its characteristic dark body and bright, maze-like white to golden markings.

Originating from the Rio Xingu in Brazil, this species is ideal for aquarists who love ornamental fish that also serve a practical role in aquarium maintenance. The L519 is peaceful, shy, and well-suited for well-maintained tropical community tanks with ample hiding spaces and soft substrate.

🔍 Key Features:

• Scientific Name: Hypancistrus sp. L519

• Common Name: L519 Pleco

• Size Available: 5 cm (juvenile)

• Adult Size: ~10–12 cm

• Temperament: Peaceful, reclusive

• Lifespan: 8–10 years or more

• Category: Catfish

• Sub-category: Pleco

🌊 Water Conditions:

• Temperature: 26–30°C (78.8–86°F)

• pH Level: 6.0–7.2

• Water Hardness: Soft to medium (2–12 dGH)

• Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons (larger recommended for groups or adults)

• Water Flow: Moderate to strong; prefers well-oxygenated environments

• Filtration: High-efficiency filtration is essential to maintain pristine water quality

Aquascape Tip: Add driftwood, smooth rocks, and caves to replicate natural hiding spots. Use a darker substrate to highlight the fish’s bright markings.

🐠 Ideal Tank Mates:

L519 Plecos are peaceful and do well in a calm community setup. Suitable companions include:

• Small to medium tetras (e.g., Ember, Cardinal, Rummy Nose)

• Corydoras catfish

• Rasboras

• Peaceful dwarf cichlids (like Apistogramma)

• Other Hypancistrus species (if enough space and caves are provided)

Avoid: Aggressive or large fish that may bully or outcompete them for food.

🍽️ Feeding Habits:

Like most Hypancistrus, L519s are omnivorous with a preference for protein. They're not algae-only feeders, so a varied diet is key to their health.

• Daily Diet:

  • Sinking carnivore pellets

  • Algae wafers (as supplemental food)

  • High-protein sinking wafers

• Occasional Treats:

  • Frozen or live food: bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia

  • Blanched vegetables: zucchini, spinach, cucumber

Feeding Tip: Feed at night or in low light conditions to match their natural nocturnal behavior.

🛠️ Care & Maintenance:

• Perform weekly water changes (20–30%)

• Keep nitrate levels low and ammonia/nitrite at zero

• Monitor water parameters closely—Hypancistrus are sensitive to poor conditions

• Provide plenty of hiding spots to reduce stress

• Use a soft sand or fine gravel substrate to protect their delicate underbellies

Breeding: Breeding in captivity is possible but requires specific water parameters (slightly acidic, soft water), stable temperatures, and cave setups for spawning. Males will typically guard the eggs until they hatch.

🌟 Why Choose the Pleco L519?

• Rare and visually captivating

• Low-maintenance and peaceful

• Helps control algae and detritus

• Perfect for South American biotope aquariums

• Compatible with many peaceful tank mates