The Vampire Pleco (Leporacanthicus galaxias) is a medium-sized, nocturnal freshwater catfish known for its striking dark body with bright orange-red fins and fang-like teeth. It is a peaceful but assertive bottom-dweller that thrives in well-oxygenated aquariums with hiding spaces.
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The Vampire Pleco (Leporacanthicus galaxias) is a medium-sized, nocturnal freshwater catfish known for its striking dark body with bright orange-red fins and fang-like teeth. It is a peaceful but assertive bottom-dweller that thrives in well-oxygenated aquariums with hiding spaces.
Flattened, armored body with dark brown to black base color. Bright orange-red pectoral and caudal fins with fang-like teeth visible when feeding. Adults reach 5–7 inches. Males often show more intense coloration and odontodes on pectoral fins during breeding.
10–15 years with proper care
Omnivorous; primarily feeds on algae, biofilm, and small invertebrates. Supplement with sinking algae wafers, protein-rich foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, chopped shrimp or seafood, and blanched vegetables.
Vampire Plecos are an exciting addition for aquarists seeking a visually striking, nocturnal bottom-dweller. Their unique coloration, moderate size, and peaceful but assertive behavior make them ideal for community aquariums with caves and driftwood.
Moderate – requires stable water parameters, hiding spaces, and varied diet.
40–55 gallons (larger preferred for multiple individuals or community setups)
6.5 to 7.5
5–15 dGH
75–82°F (24–28°C)
5–7 inches
Peaceful midwater and surface fish such as tetras, rasboras, gouramis, and dwarf cichlids. Avoid overly aggressive or very small fish.
Aggressive species or very small fish that may be stressed. Avoid overcrowding with other assertive bottom-dwellers without sufficient hiding spaces.
Leporacanthicus galaxias
Loricariidae
South America – rivers of Venezuela, Brazil, and surrounding areas; inhabits rocky or driftwood-rich substrates.
Semi-solitary; peaceful with other species but assertive with bottom-dwellers. Males may defend caves during breeding.
Feed primarily algae wafers and protein-rich foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, chopped shrimp, or seafood. Supplement with blanched vegetables such as zucchini or spinach. Ensure food reaches the bottom of the tank.
pH: 6.5–7.5, Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C), Hardness: 5–15 dGH, Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm, Nitrate: <20 ppm
Sensitive to poor water quality; prone to stress and ich. Ensure proper diet and stable water conditions to maintain health and vibrant colors.
Generally peaceful but assertive towards other bottom-dwellers. Nocturnal and spends most of the day hiding under rocks, caves, or driftwood. Active at night while foraging for food.
Native to the rivers of South America, the Vampire Pleco is admired for its striking appearance, including dark body coloration contrasted with bright orange-red fins and visible fang-like teeth. Adults reach 5–7 inches, making them suitable for medium to large aquariums. They are hardy and adaptable but require hiding spaces, moderate water flow, and stable water parameters. A varied diet ensures vibrant colors, long-term health, and active nocturnal behavior.