the genus Leporacanthicus is relatively new being erected in 1989 to house Leporacanthicus galaxias. That said it has been quick to gain a number of members. Within this genus aquarists are most familiar with Leporacanthicus galaxias, most commonly referred to as the Galaxy Pleco but also L007, L029, Tusken or Vampire Pleco. It is certainly the most commonly available member of the genus. Others (specifically L. heterodon and L. joselimai and our fish, L. triactis) are also available from time to time. The common name of 3 Beacon Pleco is not widely established, but these things have to have their beginnings somewhere and it is an accurate name - more descriptive than L091 at least.
Although usually thought of as a new import it has been at least sporadically available for quite some time as it's lower l-number suggests. It was labelled L91 in April 1992 before its scientific description in 1993. It is an easily recognised pleco and has no other L-number "synonyms". Before L-numbers we just didn't know what to call it. As such it does make an appearance in a couple of older catfish books. Eagle-eyed pleco buffs will have noticed it in Burgess' Catfish atlas on P732 (second photo from top on the left hand side) and it labelled Hypostomus sp. The same picture appears in Kobayagawa's World of Catfishes on page 59 coincidentally in the same position.
| Characteristics |
The upper teeth in the sucker-mouth are long. Narrow, pointed head, round lower lip, and fleshy tentacles on the upper lip.
| Colour |
Body brown or grey to charcoal black. 3 vivid orange blotches; one each on all 3 non-paired fins. Unlike many Loricarids with similar markings these flashes, if anything, increase intensity with age.
| Compatibility |
This fish can be territorial with its own kind and so must have a big enough aquarium if more than one is kept. Regular water changes must be adhered to, and also having a powerful filter system that can deliver a high oxygen content. Hiding places are beneficial to this fish with bogwood or wood of some description and/or some rockwork.
https://www.scotcat.com/factsheets/leporacanthicus_triactis.htm