What is this cool marbled pleco?

[FishEggs]

Just picked up this cool marbled looking pleco from a LFS. A customer brought it in to them and didnt know what it was and they didnt know either. Hoping the expert community here can i.d. it for me so I can give it the proper care.

Thanks for your help
Matt

[bekateen]

Hi Matt,

Great find! That's a big male

Dekeyseria picta

. Previously divided into two L numbers,

L052

and

L168

.

They need clean water and lots of oxygen, so keep up the water changes and add an airstone or powerhead with venturi.

Cheers, Eric

[FishEggs]

Thanks for the help Eric.
How would the female differ?

[bekateen]

Females are fatter midbody, have a narrower head and very short odontodes on the pectoral spines.

Cheers, Eric

[FishEggs]

What is your opinion on the sex of this one?

[bekateen]

Too small to sex. Also, from its flat stomach, it is not in great condition yet to be reliably sexable.

Feed it well, let it grow an inch, and let's try again.

Good luck,
Eric

[FishEggs]

I was hoping it wasnt too small but kinda figured as much.
Very much appreciate the help and info. I will check back when its bigger.
Thanks
Matt