Peckoltia compta

Family: Loricariidae

Peckoltia compta — a Loricariidae from South America. Reaches 9–13.2 cm; keep at 25–29 °C.

Care parameters

Water temperature
25–29 °C
pH
6–7.5
GH hardness
5–18 dGH
Adult length
9–13.2 cm
Minimum tank
209 L
Water layer
Bottom-dwelling
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Peaceful; territorial over a favourite cave
Origin
South America

Species overview

A Loricariidae species native to South America: Peckoltia compta lives bottom-dwelling over rocky and woody stretches of streams. Peaceful; territorial over a favourite cave. Adults reach 9–13.2 cm. It is one of the aquarium-kept Peckoltia species we profile, alongside Peckoltia vittata.

Native biotope

Habitat
Rocky and woody stretches of streams
Flow
Moderate current with well-oxygenated water
Dissolved O₂
Appreciates high dissolved oxygen

Aquascape & hardware

Substrate
Sand and gravel with driftwood
Hardscape
Driftwood and smooth stones with grazing surfaces
Plants
Hardy plants; algae growth welcomed

Temperament, diet & tankmates

Schooling
Singles, pairs or small groups
Diet
Herbivorous-leaning omnivore; algae and sinking foods
Recommended tankmates
  • Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs
Avoid keeping with
  • Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates

Breeding & notes

Sexual dimorphism
Males develop odontodes on the snout
Breeding method
Cave spawner; male guards the clutch

Frequently asked questions

Is Peckoltia compta easy to keep?

Difficulty: moderate. Peaceful; territorial over a favourite cave. Singles, pairs or small groups.

What temperature and water chemistry does Peckoltia compta need?

Aim for 25–29 °C. Heater for stable tropical warmth; 25–29 °C curated husbandry range.

How big does Peckoltia compta get, and what tank size?

Expect 9–13.2 cm as an adult, living bottom-dwelling. A 209 L tank or larger gives it room.

What does Peckoltia compta eat?

Herbivorous-leaning omnivore; algae and sinking foods. It forages naturally over sand and gravel with driftwood, so let some food reach the bottom.

Can Peckoltia compta live with other fish?

Peaceful; territorial over a favourite cave. Recommended tankmates: Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs. Avoid Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates.

Where does Peckoltia compta come from?

Its home waters are South America — rocky and woody stretches of streams, with moderate current with well-oxygenated water.

How does Peckoltia compta breed?

In the aquarium: cave spawner; male guards the clutch. Males develop odontodes on the snout.