Leporacanthicus Cf Galaxias L240(Leporacanthicus cf. galaxias), also known as Galaxy Pleco / Vampire Pleco, is a superb loricariid with a black body dotted with white spots, reminiscent of a starry sky. Native to the fast-flowing rivers of South America, it requires a spacious aquarium and impeccable filtration in our freshwater world, with well-equipped aquariums.

Behaviour & maintenance

The L240 is a nocturnal groundfish, generally peaceful with other species but territorial towards other pleco and similar groundfish.

• Mostly active at night, spends the day in caves and under roots.
• Can cope well with calm medium/large fish occupying the middle and surface.
• Can be aggressive with other large loricariids if it lacks hiding places.

Provide an aquarium of at least 300 L for one individual, more for cohabitation with other bottom-dwelling fish. Provide strong filtration, a strong current and oxygen-rich water. The use of starter bacteria is highly recommended, as is regular monitoring of parameters via our water tests.

Feeding

A carnivorous species, specialising in the consumption of small animal prey.

• Preference for free-flowing protein foods: pellets for carnivores, sticks for plecos, protein-rich pastilles.
• Enjoys frozen or live foods (artemia, krill, mysis, bloodworms, small crustaceans).
• Can eat a little plant food (seaweed, mixed pellets), but the base must remain protein-rich.

See our range of foods for carnivorous bottom-dwelling fish. In planted aquariums, choose robust plants and support them with aquarium fertiliser.

Water quality

• Ideal temperature: 25 - 29°C
• pH: 6.0 - 7.5
• GH: 5 - 15 °dGH
• KH: 2 - 8 °KH
• Conductivity: 150 - 400 µS

Treat the water with a water conditioner before introduction. Maintain excellent water quality with weekly changes (20-30%) and regular monitoring of parameters with our water tests.

Decor & environment

In the wild, the L240 frequents rocky rivers with strong currents. Reproduce an oxygenated environment rich in hiding places:

• Aquarium substrate (sand or rounded gravel) with rocky areas.
• Numerous hiding places: caves, tubes, rock piles, roots and driftwood.
• Subdued lighting, with shaded areas and quiet refuges.

For an optimal environment, use aquarium substrate, ouraquascaping elements and aquarium lighting. Complete the decor with decorations and current zones.

Maintenance sheet

Aquabota tip

Offer the L240 several individual caves to limit territorial conflicts and ensure a sustained current with very well-oxygenated water. Regularly monitor your parameters with our water tests to guarantee its longevity.

Shipping & delivery of live fish

The fish are shipped with care in specially adapted isothermal packaging, guaranteeing their safety during transport.

Delivery methods

• France Express (secure home delivery in France, Belgium and Luxembourg)
• In-store collection at Sombreffe (Belgium)

Shipment organisation

• Orders closed: every Monday at 10.00 am.
• France: departures on Monday or Tuesday, depending on the delivery department, for delivery between Tuesday and Thursday.
• Belgium & Luxembourg: departures on Monday and Tuesday for delivery between Tuesday and Wednesday.