Remarks:  If you are looking for a hardy pleco that stays a manageable size and is not as common as the traditional bushynose, look no further than the L127 Lujans pleco. These catfish can grow up to 5” but most do not exceed 3-4” in length which has them in the same size range as bushynose plecos. In fact, they share so many similarities both in behavior and morphology with Ancistrus species that they were once placed in the Ancistrinae genus until it was reclassified as Peckoltia lujani in 2015 after the publication of a paper by Armbruster et al. The patterns and coloration displayed by the L127 Lujans pleco varies as they possess a non-uniform pattern of dark gray or black spots and mottling set on a tan or light gray body. This coloration is why they are sometimes called the mottled false zebra pleco. It also makes them a great alternative for the typically more sensitive Hypancistrus species that display the coveted zebra patterns.

  The L127 Lujans pleco is found in both the Rio Meta and the Rio Orinoco that run through both Venezuela and Colombia. They occur in a broad range of habitat which is likely the cause for them being so tolerant of varying parameters. However, it should be noted that these conditions are majorly soft and acidic to neutral so they will do best if these parameters are replicated in the aquarium. Being omnivores that are far from picky, they will appreciate a varied diet to help meet all their nutritional needs. As with all Loricariids, high nitrates and low oxygen levels should be avoided through the use of frequent water changes, plenty of aeration, and appropriate filtration. If looking to breed the L127 Lujans pleco, the typical set up of multiple small caves should help encourage spawning, however it has been noted they tend to not always be the most willing pleco to spawn. Despite this, their hardy nature and manageable size make the L127 Lujan’s pleco an excellent addition to many aquariums.