Scobinancistrus Pariolispos L368 PLECO

🐆 Scobinancistrus Pariolispos – L368 Pleco Care Guide

The L368 Pleco (Scobinancistrus pariolispos) is a rare and eye-catching Loricariid species native to the Rio Tapajós in Brazil. Known for its iridescent golden pattern over a dark grey to black body, this species is a close relative to the Sunshine Pleco (Scobinancistrus aureatus). It’s a bold, carnivore-leaning bottom-dweller best suited for large, well-filtered aquariums with stable warm water and plenty of cover.

🐟 Species Overview

• Scientific Name: Scobinancistrus pariolispos

• L-Number: L368

• Common Names: L368 Pleco, Tapajós Gold Pleco, Grey Gold Pleco

• Origin: Rio Tapajós, Brazil

• Adult Size: 10–12 inches (25–30 cm)

• Lifespan: 10–15 years in captivity

• Temperament: Semi-aggressive; territorial with other bottom dwellers

• Activity: Mostly nocturnal, but will become active during the day if comfortable

🏡 Aquarium Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 90–120 gallons (340–450 liters)

• Tank Shape: Long tanks preferred for swimming space and territory

• Substrate: Fine sand or smooth gravel

• Décor:

  • Rounded rocks, slate caves, and driftwood

  • Visual barriers and hiding spaces to reduce territorial conflict

• Lighting: Low to moderate; provide shaded areas

• Water Movement: Moderate to strong current

• Filtration: Heavy-duty filtration system is essential due to protein-rich diet

💡 This pleco enjoys well-oxygenated water with mild current, mimicking its native river habitat.

💧 Water Parameters

• Temperature: 80–86°F (27–30°C)

• pH Range: 6.2–7.4

• Hardness: Soft to moderately hard (4–15 dGH)

• TDS: 100–250 ppm

• Water Changes: 30–50% weekly to control nitrate buildup

🧪 Stable, high-quality water is critical to maintaining health and vibrant coloration.

🍽️ Diet & Feeding

Scobinancistrus pariolispos is a carnivorous-leaning omnivore, preferring high-protein foods over algae.

• Staple Foods:

  • Sinking carnivore pellets

  • Protein-rich pleco wafers

• Protein Additions:

  • Frozen or fresh shrimp, bloodworms, krill, mussels

• Vegetables (occasional):

  • Zucchini, cucumber, spinach once or twice a week

• Feeding Frequency: Once or twice daily; ensure food reaches bottom zones

⚠️ This species does not graze on algae and should not be considered a "tank cleaner."

🤝 Compatibility & Tankmates

• Best Tankmates:

  • Mid-to-top level peaceful species (e.g., Congo tetras, Severums, Geophagus)

  • Other large Loricariids only in very spacious tanks with divided territories

• Avoid:

  • Small, fragile fish

  • Aggressive cichlids or other dominant bottom dwellers

💡 Territorial toward similar-shaped plecos, especially in tanks without sufficient caves or hiding zones.

🐣 Breeding Notes

Breeding Scobinancistrus pariolispos in captivity is rare and not well-documented.

• Spawning Behavior: Cave spawner

• Ideal Setup: Warm, oxygen-rich water with ample caves

• Male Role: Males typically guard and fan eggs until hatching

• Breeding Triggers:

  • Simulate rainy season conditions (cooler water changes, high protein feeding)

• Fry Feeding: Finely crushed protein foods or baby brine shrimp

🔍 Sexual dimorphism is subtle—males may show more odontodes (spines) on cheeks and pectoral fins.

📝 Quick Care Summary

🔧 Expert Tips

• Use multiple caves to reduce aggression if housing with other plecos

• Feed a variety of meaty foods to enhance color and growth

• Use a sponge pre-filter on intakes to prevent clogging from leftover food

• Provide strong surface agitation to increase oxygen levels