L368 "Moon Pleco"

Common Name: Moon Pleco / L368
Scientific Name: Scobinancistrus sp. L368
Native Region: Brazil – Rio Tapajós, Pará
Origin: Tank Raised
Adult Size: Approximately 12–14"
Temperament: Peaceful / Semi-territorial
Diet: Omnivore / Carnivore
Currently Feeding On: EBO Mussel Sticks, EBO Seafood Softgran, EBO Plankton Tabs
Swimming Level: Bottom
Recommended Group: 1+

The L368 Moon Pleco is an impressive and relatively uncommon Scobinancistrus known for its dark body covered with contrasting pale spots. Its heavily armored body, broad head, large fins, and unusual dentition give it a very different appearance from the smaller plecos commonly found in the hobby. L368 is closely associated with Scobinancistrus pariolispos, and specialist references note that it may represent a variant of that species.

L368 originates from the Rio Tapajós in Pará, Brazil, where it inhabits rocky river environments with abundant submerged structure and hiding places. These fish appreciate clean, warm, well-oxygenated water and plenty of caves, rockwork, and driftwood. Although they do not necessarily remain directly in the strongest current, good circulation and high dissolved oxygen are important for maintaining them in peak condition.

Moon Plecos are generally active and non-aggressive, but mature individuals can become territorial, particularly when competing for caves and preferred hiding places. A large aquarium with multiple caves and visual barriers allows each fish to establish its own space. Their substantial adult size also makes them best suited to aquariums housing appropriately sized South American tankmates rather than very small community fish.

Care Requirements

Temperature: 75–86°F
pH: 6.0–7.5
Tank Size: 125 gallons or larger
Water: Clean, warm, well-oxygenated, with good circulation
Group Size: 1+

L368 requires a spacious aquarium with a large footprint, especially once mature. A tank of at least 5 feet in length is appropriate for adult specimens. Provide several large caves and shaded retreats constructed from stone, slate, ceramic caves, and driftwood. Multiple hiding places are particularly useful when keeping more than one individual and can significantly reduce territorial competition.

Filtration should be appropriately sized for a large, heavily fed pleco. Strong biological filtration, good mechanical filtration, regular water changes, and high oxygen levels are important. Moderate to strong circulation can be provided while still leaving quieter areas around caves where the fish can rest.

L368 is not primarily an algae-eating pleco and should receive a substantial amount of protein in its diet. It readily accepts sinking carnivorous and omnivorous foods, frozen foods, mussel, shrimp, bloodworms, and quality sinking pellets or wafers. EBO Mussel Sticks are an excellent staple, while EBO Plankton Tabs and EBO Seafood Softgran can provide additional variety. Specialist keepers report that L368 readily accepts frozen foods, granules, and sinking tablets, with mussel meat being particularly well received.

Because this species grows large and can consume substantial meals, feeding should be balanced with excellent filtration and regular maintenance. Uneaten meaty foods should be removed promptly to prevent unnecessary increases in organic waste.

Moon Plecos can be excellent inhabitants of large South American community aquariums. They can be kept with appropriately sized peaceful cichlids, characins, large tetras, discus, angelfish, and other robust community fish capable of tolerating warm water. Avoid highly aggressive bottom dwellers and provide sufficient caves if keeping L368 with other plecos.

Difficulty: Moderate
Breeding: Cave Spawner

Why We Like Them

• Rare and impressive Scobinancistrus

• Distinctive moon-like spotting pattern

• Grows into a substantial centerpiece pleco

• Fascinating unusual dentition

• Active and interesting behavior

• Excellent choice for large South American aquariums

• Readily accepts a wide variety of foods

• Particularly attractive to serious L-number collectors

All livestock is carefully quarantined and monitored before being offered for sale at Saburai Aquatics.