Vampire Pleco

Vampire Pleco

Leporacanthicus galaxias

Also known as: Galaxy Pleco, L029, Tusken Pleco

💧 Freshwater ⚡ Semi-aggressive 🟡 Moderate 🥩 Carnivore

Striking pleco with white spots on a jet-black body and prominent teeth. Named for its fang-like odontodes used to eat snails.

Tank Size

50 gal
minimum (75+ preferred)

Temperature

75–82°F
24–28°C

pH Range

5.5–7
water acidity

Max Size

10"
25.4 cm

Lifespan

10–15 years
typical in captivity

Swim Level

Bottom
preferred zone

Care Notes

Territorial toward other plecos and bottom dwellers. Needs caves and driftwood. Prefers warm, acidic, soft water with good flow.

Feeding

Meaty foods — frozen bloodworms, shrimp, snails, and high-protein sinking pellets. Not an algae eater.

Compatible Tank Mates

None identified.

Use Caution With

Cardinal Tetra 2" Rummy Nose Tetra 2" Black Skirt Tetra 2.5" Congo Tetra 3.5" Harlequin Rasbora 2" Zebra Danio 2" Bloodfin Tetra 2" Diamond Tetra 2.5" Buenos Aires Tetra 3" Scissortail Rasbora 3.5" Emperor Tetra 2" Penguin Tetra 2.5"

Incompatible With

Neon Tetra 1.5" Ember Tetra 0.8" Serpae Tetra 1.75" Glowlight Tetra 1.5" Chili Rasbora 0.7" Celestial Pearl Danio 1" White Cloud Mountain Minnow 1.5" Lemon Tetra 1.5" Black Neon Tetra 1.5" Green Neon Tetra 1" X-Ray Tetra 1.75" Flame Tetra 1.5"

Check Compatibility

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