l-014 sunshine pleco 3 inch

L014 Sunshine Pleco Care Guide

Scientific Name: Scobinancistrus aureatus

Common Name: Sunshine Pleco

L-number: L014

Origin: Rio Xingu, Brazil

Adult Size: 12–14 inches (30–35 cm)

Lifespan: 10–15 years

Temperament: Semi-aggressive

Difficulty: Intermediate to advanced

Diet: Omnivore (meaty preference)

🐟 Overview

The Sunshine Pleco is one of the most visually striking plecos in the aquarium hobby. Its deep black or charcoal body is covered in golden to yellow spots, and its bright yellow fins give it its sunny name. While peaceful when young, adults can become territorial, especially with other bottom dwellers.

🏠 Tank Requirements

Recommended Setup:

• Strong filtration and oxygenation — they originate from fast-flowing rivers.

• Add large driftwood, stone caves, and smooth rocks for cover.

• Ensure open swimming space for active nighttime movement.

🍽️ Feeding Guide

The L014 is an omnivore but leans heavily toward a carnivorous diet, especially as an adult.

Suggested foods:

• Sinking carnivore pellets or wafers

• Frozen foods: bloodworms, krill, brine shrimp, blackworms

• Occasional vegetables: zucchini, squash, cucumber (remove after 24 hours)

• Supplemental wood: not required like with Panaqolus, but optional for natural behavior

Feed once or twice daily. Avoid overfeeding — they are heavy eaters and can pollute water quickly.

🤝 Behavior and Compatibility

• Generally peaceful when young, but adult males may become aggressive, especially toward other plecos or bottom-dwelling species.

• Best kept alone or with non-territorial mid/top-dwelling tankmates.

• Nocturnal, but with consistent feeding they will become more visible during the day.

🐣 Breeding Information

Captive breeding of L014 is rare and extremely difficult:

• Requires large breeding tanks (150+ gallons) with strong current and oxygenation.

• Males may take over large caves or pipes and guard eggs.

• Water changes with cool, soft water may help simulate rainy season breeding conditions.

• Success in captivity has mostly been limited to experienced breeders in commercial setups.

⚠️ Health and Maintenance Tips

• Water quality is critical — sensitive to ammonia, nitrites, and high nitrates.

• Perform weekly water changes (30–50%).

• Avoid copper-based medications.

• Watch for signs of stress: color loss, labored breathing, or hiding excessively even at night.

⭐ Notable Facts

• The Sunshine Pleco is often confused with L253, which looks similar but has subtle differences in body shape and spot size.

• It’s one of the few large plecos that maintains its vivid coloration well into adulthood.

• Due to its size and territorial tendencies, this pleco is best suited to expert hobbyists or large display tanks.

✅ Summary

The L014 Sunshine Pleco is a large, vibrant, and rewarding fish for aquarists with the space and experience to care for it properly. While not ideal for community nano tanks, it makes a dazzling centerpiece in large aquariums. Clean, oxygen-rich water, a protein-rich diet, and ample territory will keep this fish thriving for over a decade.