Starlight Bristlenose Pleco (Ancistrus sp. L183)
 
Overview
The L183 Pleco, commonly known as the Starlight Bristlenose Pleco, is a small, peaceful Loricariid catfish prized for its deep black coloration speckled with bright white or blue-white spots. A defining feature is the bold white edging on the dorsal and caudal fins, giving it a starry, elegant appearance. This species is hardy, algae-eating, and ideal for community or planted aquariums.
 
Scientific Classification
Scientific Name: Ancistrus sp. L183
Common Names: Starlight Bristlenose Pleco, White Seam Ancistrus
Family: Loricariidae
Origin: Rio Negro Basin, Brazil, South America
Adult Size: Up to 10 cm (4 inches)
Lifespan: 8–10 years
 
Appearance
The Starlight Bristlenose has a deep black to charcoal body adorned with small white spots. The most distinctive feature is the white trim along the dorsal and tail fins. Males develop characteristic fleshy bristles around their snouts as they mature, while females are smoother-faced and slightly smaller. Under subdued lighting, their spots shimmer like stars against a night sky.
 
Behavior & Temperament
L183 Plecos are peaceful and mostly nocturnal. They spend much of their time attached to driftwood or glass, grazing on biofilm and algae. They can be territorial with other bottom-dwellers of similar shape or size, so it’s best to provide hiding spots if keeping multiple catfish. They coexist well with tetras, rasboras, gouramis, and other calm species.
 
Tank Requirements
Minimum Tank Size: 80 liters (20 gallons)
Temperature: 25–30°C (77–86°F)
pH Range: 5.5–7.0
Water Hardness: 2–12 dGH
Substrate: Fine sand or smooth gravel
Lighting: Dim to moderate
Décor: Driftwood (essential for grazing and digestion), rocks, and caves for shelter. They prefer tannin-rich water with gentle flow, mimicking blackwater conditions.
 
Diet
Omnivorous with a preference for plant-based foods.
Provide a variety of:
Algae wafers and sinking vegetable pellets
Fresh vegetables (zucchini, cucumber, spinach)
Occasional protein-rich foods such as bloodworms or brine shrimp
Supplement with wood (driftwood or bogwood) for fiber and natural feeding behavior.
 
Breeding
L183 Plecos are cave spawners.
Setup: Provide narrow caves or PVC tubes.
Process: The male guards the eggs until they hatch after 5–7 days.
Fry Care: Once hatched, fry feed on biofilm and can later be offered blanched vegetables and algae wafers. Stable, clean water and soft acidity encourage breeding success.
 
Care Sheet
Tank Size: 80L+
Temperature: 25–30°C
pH: 5.5–7.0
Hardness: 2–12 dGH
Diet: Omnivore (vegetable-focused)
Temperament: Peaceful, bottom-dweller
Breeding: Cave spawner
Lifespan: 8–10 years