Luteus Pleco/Golden Sailfin Pleco - (Hypostomus Luteus) Phase II Argentina

🐟 Luteus Pleco – Golden Sailfin Pleco (Hypostomus luteus)

📚 Classification & Origin

• 🔬 Scientific Name: Hypostomus luteus
• 🏷️ Common Name: Golden Sailfin Pleco
• 🗺️ Natural Range: Upper Uruguay River Basin (Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay)
• 🧬 Name Meaning:
  • Luteus = Latin for "yellow"
  • Hypostomus = Greek for "under mouth"
• 🛡️ Conservation Status: 🟢 Least Concern (IUCN 2018)

📏 Size & Color Phases

• 📐 Max Adult Size:
  • Common: ~12″ (30–31 cm SL)
  • Rare Reports: Up to ~16″ (40+ cm TL)
• 🎨 Color Phases:
  1️⃣ Phase I: Dark body with yellow spots, yellow fins
  2️⃣ Phase II: Yellow coloration starts replacing black (as seen in this listing)
  3️⃣ Phase III: Full golden body — highly prized

🟡 Note: These phases reflect natural aging & transformation—each stage is beautiful and unique.

🧠 Temperament & Behavior

• 😇 Disposition: Peaceful
• 🌊 Habitat: Prefers fast-flowing, well-oxygenated waters with algae and biofilm
• 🌒 Activity: Bottom-dweller, active during dim hours or when settled in

🏠 Tank Requirements

• 🧼 Water Quality: Excellent filtration required
• 💨 Flow: Medium to strong flow mimics natural rivers
• 🍃 Aquascape:
  • Smooth stones or driftwood
  • Algae-rich surfaces for grazing
• 📏 Tank Size:
  • Juveniles: 55+ gallons
  • Adults: 100+ gallons recommended

🌡️ Water Parameters

• 🌡️ Temperature: 73–75°F (23–24°C)
• ⚖️ pH Range: 6.5–7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
• 💧 Water Type: Clean, well-oxygenated, moderate hardness

🍽️ Diet

• 🥦 Primary: Algae, biofilm, fresh vegetables (zucchini, spinach, etc.)
• 🦐 Supplement: Protein occasionally (shrimp pellets, insect larvae)
• ⚠️ Note: Avoid high-protein diets—this species thrives on a vegetarian base.

🔍 Sexual Dimorphism

• ♂️ Males: More robust head and stronger odontodes
• ♀️ Females: Slightly smaller, smoother head profile

💰 Rarity & Value

• 💎 Highly sought-after species—especially in Phase III
• 💸 Can command $800–$1,200+ per specimen depending on phase and size
• 📦 Mostly wild-caught imports—limited availability

📋 Quick Overview Table

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