Fishician®Diet
Omnivore/Herbivore – algae wafers, zucchini, spirulina, sinking pellets, occasional shrimp
Aquarium species profile
L076 Orange Seam Pleco
Hemiancistrus medians · South America (Venezuela — Orinoco River basin)
Minimum tank55 gal
Adult size8"
Care levelModerate
TemperamentSemi-Aggressive
Temperature77–84°F
pH range6.0–7.5
Compatible tank mates
Medium peaceful fish, medium cichlids; one per tank
Tank mates to avoid
Other territorial plecos, very aggressive fish
Care notes
Dark body with bright orange-edged fins — striking contrast. From the Orinoco drainage in Venezuela. Territorial toward conspecifics and similar plecos. Requires wood for grazing. Needs good water flow and high oxygen. Cave-spawner. Moderately demanding. Orange fin seams are most vivid on healthy, well-fed specimens.
Check the whole aquarium. Tank size alone does not establish compatibility. Confirm adult size, water overlap, social grouping, territory, diet, and the individual animals before stocking.