🐟 Phase I Luteus Pleco / Golden Sailfin Pleco – (Hypostomus luteus) – Argentina – South American Pleco for Sale
The Phase I Luteus Pleco, also called the Golden Sailfin Pleco, (Hypostomus luteus) is a spectacular South American pleco that captivates aquarists with its vivid golden-yellow coloration and elegant sail-like dorsal fin.
Native to the Uruguay River Basin in Argentina, this pleco is famous for its mysterious three-phase color transformation:
What makes Hypostomus luteus truly fascinating is that these phases are not tied to size or age—a Luteus can be in any phase at almost any size, and nobody knows exactly when or why they change. This unpredictability adds to their allure for collectors.
🔎 Quick Facts – Phase II Luteus Pleco
😇 Behavior & Temperament
🏠 Tank Requirements – Phase I Luteus Pleco Care
💧 Water Parameters
🍽️ Diet (Omnivorous)
🔍 Sexing
📋 Overview Table – Phase I Luteus Pleco Care
Feature | Details |
---|---|
🌍 Origin | Argentina – Uruguay River Basin |
📏 Max Size | 12–14 inches (30–35 cm) |
😇 Temperament | Peaceful to semi-territorial |
🏠 Tank Size | 75+ gallons |
⚗️ pH Range | 6.5–7.8 |
🌡️ Temp | 75–82°F (24–28°C) |
🍽️ Diet | Omnivorous – vegetables, algae, protein |
🎯 Ideal For | Large aquariums, advanced pleco collectors |
✨ Highlight:
The Phase II Luteus Pleco represents the stunning middle stage of the Luteus transformation, offering bright golden tones that make it one of the most visually striking plecos in the hobby. Its unpredictable phase-changing mystery makes every specimen truly unique.