Three Beacon Pleco (L091)

The three beacon pleco is recognized by its dark body and the bright orange-yellow patches on its unpaired fins; the name "three beacons" comes from these patches, and the colors are retained in adults as well. It is known from the upper Orinoco, in Colombia and Venezuela.

Adults reach 24–25 cm standard length and 28–30 cm including the tail. Like other members of its genus, it is a carnivorous species that hunts snails and crustaceans with its long upper teeth.

• At least 300 liters and a 120 × 45 cm footprint for one adult.
• Soft, slightly acidic water; a strong filter and flow.
• Large caves that fit its body and rock piles; 26–28°C.

Carnivorous. Make pieces of mussel, shrimp and fish, krill, bloodworms and protein-rich sinking tablets the staple. It loves snails; it accepts small amounts of vegetables.

Nocturnal and territorial. It can be aggressive toward its own kind and other plecos; it defends its cave fiercely. It eats shrimp and snails.

Good companions: Medium and large fish that like soft water: large tetras, Geophagus species, medium-sized cichlids.

Avoid: Shrimp, snails, other plecos (in limited space), small and slow bottom dwellers.