Leopard sailfin pleco

The leopard sailfin pleco is a large armored suckermouth catfish in the family Loricariidae, native to the Amazon and Orinoco river basins of South America. It is often sold under the L-number L083/L165. It has a tan to olive body covered in a bold dark leopard-spot pattern and an enormous sail-like dorsal fin that it raises when displaying. Its size and striking markings make it a showpiece. This peaceful but very large fish needs a spacious aquarium with strong filtration, as it produces a heavy waste load. It requires driftwood to rasp on and a diet rich in vegetable matter, algae wafers, and sinking foods supplemented with occasional protein. It is hardy and long-lived, suiting keepers who can provide a big tank; it is not commonly bred in home aquaria.