L-NUMBER PLECS

Over the past few years interest has risen in the loricariid family of fishes, especially the ‘fancy plecs’. These fascinating and often rare fish are now becoming more widely available and interest in them has risen. New species and varieties are being discovered all the time.

Until recently, identification of these unusual catfish was difficult; many types haven’t been officially classified and new species are becoming more common as fish collectors travel further afield in their quest for something special. To simplify the identification of these fish, a ‘catalogue’ has been published entitled Loricariidae – All L-Numbers.

The book contains photographs and information on these fish and they have all been given a catalogue reference number known as an L-Number. Many species have yet to be scientifically classified, therefore the only way of identifying these new species is with their L-Number. At Wildwoods, you will find all our ‘fancy plecs’ are labeled with their L-Number as well as a common name where known.

The Fish House staff at Wildwoods, spend a lot of time and effort sourcing new and rare L-Number plecs, we have excellent contacts in Brazil, Columbia, Venezuela, Peru and other South American countries who work hard at finding us these unusual catfish. Many of the more recently numbered plecs can be found swimming in our aquariums including some of the sought after ‘high numbers’. Please contact us for up-to-date information on our Loricariids as stock can change rapidly. Email

L-Number plecs are basically hardy fish that will do well as long as they have good quality water and are properly fed. At Wildwoods, we keep ours in ‘discus’ water i.e. very warm, acid and quite soft although they can be carefully acclimatized to harder water with a pH close to neutral.

It is   essential to keep a piece of bogwood in the aquarium as many species will graze upon it as an aid to their digestion.

Whilst many types of ‘fancy plec’ will feed on algae, plants, or vegetables such as green beans or cucumber, many will also require some protein in their diet such as bloodworm, brine shrimp or discus food. Whole mussel is a favourite here at Wildwoods but don't be tempted to feed high protein foods too often as it can build up fat around your plecs internal organs. Algae wafers and catfish pellets can also be a useful addition to their diet.

Many species of pleco will grow large; some in excess of 40 cm and will require a large aquarium to accommodate them properly. Some types can be aggressive and territorial and will need plenty of space and hiding places.

Use this link to see a list offL-Number plecs currently in stock at Wildwoods.