Golden Vampire Pleco - (Leporacanthicus heterodon)

🐟 Golden Vampire Pleco (Leporacanthicus heterodon)

The Golden Vampire Pleco is a striking armored catfish known for its bold yellow and black pattern and prominent teeth, giving it a fierce yet captivating look. Native to South America’s river systems, this pleco is a hardy but territorial bottom-dweller that requires spacious tanks with plenty of hiding spots.

⚠️ Note: This pleco is commonly misidentified as L172. However, L172 is a Ancistrini sp.(L172) Quoll Pleco which is a different species. The Golden Vampire Pleco does not have an L number designation.

🔍 Quick Facts

• 🆔 Common Name: Golden Vampire Pleco
• 🧬 Scientific Name: Leporacanthicus heterodon
• 🧬 Family: Loricariidae
• 🌎 Origin: South America — Orinoco and Amazon basins
• 📏 Max Size: Up to 8 inches (20 cm)

🕊️ Behavior & Temperament

• ⚔️ Territorial and somewhat aggressive toward other plecos
• 🐟 Primarily nocturnal and bottom-dwelling
• 🛑 Best kept singly or in very large tanks with ample hiding spaces

🏡 Tank Requirements

• 🛁 Minimum Tank Size: 55 gallons+
• 🪵 Provide caves, driftwood, and rocky hiding spots
• 💨 Moderate water flow and strong filtration needed
• 🌿 Sparse planting recommended due to territorial behavior

Water Parameters:

• 🌡️ Temperature: 74–82°F (23–28°C)
• ⚗️ pH: 6.5–7.5
• 💧 Soft to moderately hard water

🍽️ Diet

• Omnivorous — enjoys sinking carnivore pellets, algae wafers, and occasional protein foods like bloodworms or shrimp

📊 Overview Table

📝 Snippet

The Golden Vampire Pleco (Leporacanthicus heterodon) is a boldly patterned armored catfish prized for its striking colors and fierce appearance. Commonly misidentified as L172, it actually has no L number. Requires ample space and hiding places due to its territorial nature.