Hypostomus luteus

Hypostomus luteus is a species that stands out among large plecos for its bright golden-yellow color ("luteus": yellow). It lives in southern Brazil, in the upper Uruguay River basin.

Adults can reach 30 cm standard length and 35 cm or more including the tail. As a subtropical species, it does not stay healthy in tropical aquariums kept constantly warm.

• At least 500 liters and 150 cm length for one adult.
• 20–24°C; a strong filter, flow and aeration.
• Large roots, flat stones and spacious caves; it uproots or gnaws on plants.

Mainly herbivorous. Make spirulina and vegetable tablets, blanched zucchini, cucumber and spinach the staple; bloodworms or shrimp can be given occasionally.

Peaceful toward other species; as it grows it becomes territorial toward its own kind and other large plecos.

Good companions: Medium and large fish that like cool to temperate water: large barbs, coolwater rainbowfish, subtropical cichlids (such as Gymnogeophagus).

Avoid: Discus and warm-water species, small aquariums, other large plecos (in limited space).