Peckoltia sp. "L288" is an unofficially described species of Loricariid native to the Amazon basin. Appreciated for its black-brown tiger patterns on a golden or honey-coloured background, it is a peaceful bottom-dwelling catfish, perfect for planted or Amazonian-style aquariums.

Behaviour & care

The L288 is a territorial but non-aggressive fish that hides during the day and becomes active at night or dusk. It cohabits well with peaceful fish (tetras, Corydoras, etc.) in an aquarium of at least 80 L. Provide plenty of hiding places to limit stress and territorial conflicts between males.

Feeding

Omnivorous with carnivorous tendencies, it feeds on :

• Bottom pellets
• Artemia, mud worms, krill
• Pellets rich in animal proteins

Water quality

• Ideal temperature: 25 - 29°C
• pH: 6.0 - 7.2
• GH: 5 - 12 °dGH
• KH: 3 - 8 °KH
• Conductivity: 150 - 300 µS

Native to tropical freshwater, it thrives in warm, stable, well-filtered, oxygenated water. Avoids nitrate peaks or sudden changes in parameters.

Decor & environment

Use a fine or neutral substrate, roots (mopani, mangrove), flat stones and ceramic tubes to encourage natural behaviour and reproduction. Compatible with broad-leaved plants (Anubias, Bucephalandra).

Maintenance sheet

Aquabota tip

For successful reproduction, provide a narrow cave with a closed back, slightly warmer water (28°C) and good oxygenation.
This fish does not eat plants and is still very useful for cleaning soil and roots.