L361 Spotted Hook Pleco - (Hopliancistrus munduruku)

🐟 L361 Spotted Hook Pleco (Hopliancistrus munduruku)

The L361 Spotted Hook Pleco is a rare and striking pleco from the Tapajós River basin in Brazil, notable for its unique hook-shaped odontodes and scattered white spots across a dark body. Hardy and peaceful, it thrives in well-oxygenated aquariums with moderate water flow, driftwood, and plenty of hiding spots. Its distinctive appearance makes it a prized addition for pleco enthusiasts and species-specific tanks.

🔎 Quick Facts

• 📛 Common Name: Spotted Hook Pleco
• 🔬 Scientific Name: Hopliancistrus munduruku
• 🎨 Appearance: Dark body with scattered white spots and hook-shaped odontodes
• 📏 Max Size: 4–5 inches (10–13 cm)

😇 Behavior & Temperament

• 🤝 Peaceful, suitable for community tanks with non-aggressive species
• 🌿 Grazes on algae, biofilm, and driftwood
• 🪵 Prefers caves, driftwood, and rocks for hiding
• 🌙 Mostly nocturnal, active during low-light periods

🏠 Tank Requirements

• 📦 Minimum Tank Size: 30–40 gallons
• 🪵 Provide caves, driftwood, and hiding spots
• 🌊 Moderate water flow
• 💡 Low to moderate lighting

💧 Water Parameters

• 🌡️ Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)
• ⚗️ pH: 6.5–7.5
• 💧 Soft to moderately hard water

🍽️ Diet

• 🌿 Algae, biofilm, vegetables (zucchini, cucumber)
• 🐟 Occasional protein-rich foods (bloodworms, shrimp)

🔍 Sexing

• 👨 Males: Larger with pronounced hook-shaped odontodes on pectoral fins
• 👩 Females: Smaller, rounder abdomen, less pronounced odontodes

📋 Overview Table

✨ Snippet:

• 🐟 Rare pleco with scattered white spots and hook-shaped odontodes
• 🪵 Needs caves, driftwood, and rocks for hiding
• 🌿 Grazes on algae, vegetables, and occasional protein
• 🌊 Prefers moderate water flow
• 🌙 Mostly nocturnal