L082 Scobiancistrus OPAL PLECO

🐟 Species Overview

• Scientific Name: Scobinancistrus aureatus

• Common Names: Sunshine Pleco, Goldie Pleco, L014

• Origin: Rio Xingu & Rio Iriri, Brazil

• Size: Up to 12–16 inches (30–40 cm)

• Lifespan: 10–15 years with proper care

• Temperament: Generally peaceful; territorial toward similar bottom dwellers

• Activity: Primarily nocturnal; may become more active during the day once acclimated

🏡 Aquarium Setup

• Tank Size: Minimum 125 gallons (473 liters) for a single adult; larger tanks recommended for multiple specimens

• Substrate: Soft sand or fine gravel to protect sensitive undersides

• Decor: Provide ample hiding spots using driftwood, caves, and smooth rocks

• Lighting: Low to moderate; subdued lighting preferred

• Water Flow: Moderate to strong current to mimic natural river habitats

• Filtration: Efficient filtration system to maintain water quality and oxygenation

💧 Water Parameters

• Temperature: 77–84°F (25–29°C)

• pH: 5.8–7.2

• Hardness: 5–19 dGH

• Water Changes: Regular weekly changes (20–30%) to maintain pristine conditions

🍽️ Diet & Feeding

Sunshine Plecos are omnivores with a preference for protein-rich foods:

• Primary Diet: High-quality sinking pellets or wafers formulated for carnivorous fish

• Supplements: Live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and mussels

• Vegetables: Occasional offerings of blanched zucchini, cucumber, or spinach

• Feeding Frequency: Once or twice daily; feed in the evening to align with nocturnal activity

🤝 Tankmates & Compatibility

Sunshine Plecos are generally peaceful but can be territorial with similar species:

• Compatible Tankmates: Peaceful mid-to-top dwelling fish such as tetras, rasboras, angelfish, and rainbowfish

• Caution With: Other bottom dwellers or plecos; ensure ample space and hiding spots to reduce territorial disputes

• Avoid: Aggressive or overly territorial species that may harass or outcompete them

🐣 Breeding Tips

Breeding Sunshine Plecos in captivity is challenging but has been achieved under specific conditions:

Spawning Setup: Provide spacious tanks with multiple caves or ceramic tubes for spawning sites

• Water Conditions: Maintain temperatures around 82.5°F (28°C) with soft, slightly acidic water (pH ~7.5)

• Behavior: Males guard the eggs laid in caves; ensure minimal disturbance during this period

• Fry Care: Feed newly hatched fry with finely crushed high-protein foods; maintain excellent water quality

📝 Care Summary

By maintaining optimal water conditions, providing a suitable diet, and ensuring a well-structured environment with ample hiding spots, the Sunshine Pleco can thrive and even breed in home aquariums.

For a visual guide on caring for the Sunshine Pleco, you might find this video helpful:

🐟 Species Overview

• Scientific Name: Scobinancistrus raonii

• Common Names: Opal Spot Pleco, Polka-dot Cigar Pleco

• L-number: L082

• Origin: Xingu River, Brazil

• Size: Up to 8.7 inches (22 cm) Standard Length

• Lifespan: 10–15 years with proper care

• Temperament: Generally peaceful; may exhibit territorial behavior towards similar species

🏡 Aquarium Setup

• Tank Size: Minimum 75 gallons (284 liters) for a single adult; larger tanks recommended for multiple specimens

• Substrate: Soft sand or fine gravel to protect sensitive undersides

• Decor: Provide ample hiding spots using driftwood, caves, and smooth rocks

• Lighting: Low to moderate; subdued lighting preferred

• Water Flow: Moderate to strong current to mimic natural river habitats

• Filtration: Efficient filtration system to maintain water quality and oxygenation

💧 Water Parameters

• Temperature: 77–84°F (25–29°C)

• pH: 5.8–7.2

• Hardness: 5–19 dGH

• Water Changes: Regular weekly changes (20–30%) to maintain pristine conditions

🍽️ Diet & Feeding

Opal Spot Plecos are omnivores with a preference for protein-rich food.

• Primary Diet: High-quality sinking pellets or wafers formulated for carnivorous fish

• Supplements: Live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and mussels

• Vegetables: Occasional offerings of blanched zucchini, cucumber, or spinach

• Feeding Frequency: Once or twice daily; feed in the evening to align with nocturnal activity

🤝 Tankmates & Compatibility

Opal Spot Plecos are generally peaceful but can be territorial with similar species:

• Compatible Tankmates: Peaceful mid-to-top dwelling fish such as tetras, rasboras, angelfish, and rainbowfish

• Caution With: Other bottom dwellers or plecos; ensure ample space and hiding spots to reduce territorial disputes

• Avoid: Aggressive or overly territorial species that may harass or outcompete them

🐣 Breeding Tips

Breeding Opal Spot Plecos in captivity is challenging but has been achieved under specific conditions:

• Spawning Setup: Provide spacious tanks with multiple caves or ceramic tubes for spawning sites

• Water Conditions: Maintain temperatures around 82.5°F (28°C) with soft, slightly acidic water (pH ~7.5)

• Behavior: Males guard the eggs laid in caves; ensure minimal disturbance during this period

• Fry Care: Feed newly hatched fry with finely crushed high-protein foods; maintain excellent water quality

📝 Care Summary

By maintaining optimal water conditions, providing a suitable diet, and ensuring a well-structured environment with ample hiding spots, the Opal Spot Pleco can thrive and even breed in home aquariums.