Pleco Candy Stripe L-015 (Peckoltia vittata)
Candy Striped Pleco is a dwarf Pleco native to the Amazon River in South America. They are often confused with other types of plecos with similar appearance, such as Clown Plecos. This fish features a beige to dark brown base colour with cream-coloured stripes. This species eats algae on wood and hardscape features but won’t usually remove algae from aquarium glass. Keep this in mind if you’re choosing fish for algae control.
Physical Characteristics
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Species | Peckoltia vittata |
| Size | Up to 3 inches (7.5 cm) |
| Colour | Beige to dark brown base with cream-coloured stripes |
| Habitat | Amazon River basin, South America |
| Diet | Algae on wood and hardscape |
FAQ
Does the Candy Stripe Pleco eat algae on glass?
No, this fish primarily eats algae on wood and hardscape features and does not typically remove algae from aquarium glass.
How does the Candy Stripe Pleco compare to Clown Pleco?
Both have similar appearances, but Candy Stripe Pleco has a beige to dark brown base with cream stripes, while Clown Pleco tends to have more vibrant and varied patterns.
What is the ideal tank setup for this pleco?
A well-planted tank with driftwood and hardscape features is ideal, as the fish feeds on algae growing on these surfaces.

Richard Mackay –
The Candy Stripe Pleco is a beautiful addition to my tank. It’s small and peaceful, and it actively eats algae on the wood. I noticed it doesn’t bother the glass, which is good to know for algae control. It’s a great choice for a beginner aquarist looking for a calm, attractive fish.
Bernadette Mills –
I bought this pleco for algae control, but it’s more active on wood than on glass. Still, it looks great and blends well with the tank decor. It’s not aggressive and stays quiet most of the time.
Jack Wilson –
The fish arrived healthy and has been thriving in my 20-gallon tank. The cream stripes stand out nicely against the dark background. I appreciate that it doesn’t eat glass algae, so I don’t have to worry about overgrowth on the sides.