Plecos Gold Point colombia L082 Scobiancistrus similar OPAL

✨ L082 Gold Point Pleco (Scobinancistrus sp.) – Care Guide

The Gold Point Pleco (Scobinancistrus sp., L082), also referred to as the Colombian Gold Point Pleco, is a dazzling bottom-dwelling species known for its black body covered in fine golden-yellow spots, giving it a glittering, starry appearance. Native to river systems of northern South America, this pleco is a close cousin of the more widely known L014 (Sunshine Pleco), but L082 often exhibits a more speckled and slightly subtler color pattern. It thrives in well-oxygenated tanks with plenty of space and a protein-rich diet.

🐟 Species Overview

• Scientific Name: Scobinancistrus sp. (L082, Colombia)

• Common Names: Gold Point Pleco, L082 Pleco, Colombian Gold Pleco

• Origin: Rio Magdalena or Orinoco tributaries, Colombia (exact range debated)

• Adult Size: 9–12 inches (23–30 cm)

• Lifespan: 10–15 years with proper care

• Temperament: Generally peaceful; territorial with other bottom dwellers

• Activity: Nocturnal; active after dusk

🏡 Aquarium Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 90–120 gallons for adults

• Substrate: Soft sand or fine gravel

• Décor:

  • Provide multiple hiding places using caves, rocks, and driftwood

  • Avoid sharp edges to protect their skin

• Lighting: Low to moderate (dim zones preferred)

• Water Flow: Moderate to strong

• Filtration: High-capacity filtration is essential due to their protein-rich diet and size

💡 A well-aerated tank with strong water movement mimics their native river habitat.

💧 Water Parameters

• Temperature: 78–86°F (25.5–30°C)

• pH Range: 6.2–7.4

• Hardness: 4–15 dGH

• TDS: 100–250 ppm

• Water Changes: 30–50% weekly to maintain excellent water quality

🧪 This pleco is sensitive to poor water conditions—nitrate control and oxygenation are vital.

🍽️ Diet & Feeding

The Gold Point Pleco is a carnivore-leaning omnivore, preferring high-protein foods over algae or plant matter.

• Staple Diet:

  • Sinking carnivore pellets

  • High-protein pleco wafers

• Protein Supplements:

  • Frozen or fresh bloodworms, shrimp, krill, mussels

• Vegetable Additions (limited):

  • Blanched zucchini or peas (occasional treats)

• Feeding Frequency: Once or twice daily, best offered in the evening or after lights go out

⚠️ Do not rely on algae as a food source—this species does not graze like herbivorous plecos.

🤝 Compatibility & Tankmates

• Good Tankmates:

  • Large peaceful fish: Severums, Geophagus, Silver Dollars

  • Mid- and top-level schooling fish that don’t compete for territory

• Avoid:

  • Other large plecos or bottom dwellers unless tank is very large

  • Aggressive cichlids or fish that may outcompete them for food

💡 Establish hiding spaces to minimize territorial disputes if housing more than one pleco.

🐣 Breeding Notes

Captive breeding of Scobinancistrus sp. (L082) is rare, though it may be possible under controlled conditions.

• Spawning Behavior: Cave spawner

• Breeding Triggers:

  • Frequent water changes

  • Slight temperature drops

  • High-protein diet

• Parental Care: Males may guard eggs inside caves until hatching

• Fry Feeding: Baby brine shrimp, powdered carnivore food; pristine water required

📌 Accurate sexing is difficult, but mature males typically develop cheek odontodes and larger pectoral fins.

📝 Quick Care Summary

🔧 Expert Tips

• Maintain strong filtration and aeration, especially in warm water

• Offer multiple types of hiding spots to establish territory

• Use color-enhancing foods like krill or shrimp to boost the golden spotting

• Avoid tank overcrowding—this species prefers elbow room

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