Three Beacon Plec

About

A rarely exported suckermouth catfish from the upper Orinoco basin, Leporacanthicus triactis goes by the common trade name three beacon plec, a nod to the orange or reddish flashes on its unpaired fins. What makes this species genuinely worth seeking out is that those fin markings hold their color into adulthood, which is unusual for a loricariid. Many related species fade disappointingly as they mature. Like all members of its genus, it carries the nickname vampire plec for good reason: the upper jaw sports two prominent fang-like teeth, probably used to grip snails and invertebrates rather than anything more dramatic. There's also a small bony knob on top of the head whose function nobody has pinned down yet. In the wild these fish shelter in riverbank burrows and spawn in deep holes during the wet season, though captive breeding hasn't been achieved. In the aquarium, this is a fish that demands respect for its territorial streak, especially toward others of its own kind. Males in particular will square off, so if you want to keep more than one, generous tank space and clearly defined territories are non-negotiable. Peaceful characins, corydoras, and similar South American catfish make sensible companions. Purchasing healthy specimens is important. Check for a rounded belly and alert, full eyes before buying.