The Golden Vampire Pleco is a striking, carnivorous pleco prized for its golden/yellow highlights, strong jaw and fang-like teeth used for eating meaty foods. Native to Brazilian rivers (notably the Xingu), it’s a showy, moderately large pleco that’s popular with collectors who want a bold, meat-eating Loricariid.
⚠️ Identification / L-number note
Some sellers list this fish as L172 or L172a — this is incorrect. L172 (the “Quoll Pleco”) is an Ancistrini sp. (L172). Don’t rely solely on mismatched L-numbers when buying; use morphology (fangs, body shape, fin & color traits) and supplier reputation to confirm Leporacanthicus heterodon.
🌊 Tank setup
🍽️ Diet
⚖️ Temperament
🧠 Behavior & care
| 🔖 Scientific Name | Leporacanthicus heterodon |
|---|---|
| 🐟 Common Name | Golden Vampire Pleco |
| 🌎 Origin | Rio Xingu basin (Brazil) |
| 📏 Size | 8–10" (20–25 cm) |
| 🌡️ Temperature | 78–86°F (26–30°C) |
| 💧 pH Range | 6.0–7.5 |
| 🐟 Temperament | Semi-aggressive / territorial |
| 🏠 Tank Size | 55–75+ gallons |
| 🍽️ Diet | Carnivore |
| 🎯 Experience | Intermediate → Advanced |
💡 Highly sought after for color and feeding behavior — confirm ID before purchase (see the L-number note above), and plan for a protein-rich diet and strong filtration.











