Leopard Cactus Pleco L114 (Pseudacanthicus cf. leopardus) Care Guide
The L114 leopard cactus pleco (Pseudacanthicus cf. leopardus) is a large spiny loricariid from the rio Negro basin in Brazil.
Overview
The leopard cactus pleco is a large spiny loricariid catfish traded under the L-number L114 (also LDA007). Seriously Fish lists it as Pseudacanthicus cf. leopardus, the "cf." indicating that its identity is not confirmed: the formally described Pseudacanthicus leopardus (Fowler, 1914) was described from the Rupununi River in Guyana, so the relationship of the aquarium L114 fish to that species remains uncertain. Males are notably spiny on the abdomen and head.
Taxonomy
- Family: Loricariidae
- Genus: Pseudacanthicus
- Scientific name (trade): Pseudacanthicus cf. leopardus
- L-number: L114 (also LDA007)
- Described species reference: Pseudacanthicus leopardus (Fowler, 1914)
Habitat
According to Seriously Fish, the L114 fish originates in the rio Negro basin in Amazonas state, Brazil, particularly the rio Demini, a northern tributary of the central Negro. It is a freshwater, demersal catfish associated with flowing, well-oxygenated river habitats with rocks and submerged wood.
Tank requirements
- Recommended tank base: 180 × 60 cm or larger (Seriously Fish)
- Temperature: 24–28 °C (75–82 °F)
- pH: 6.0–7.5
- GH: 2–12 °dGH
- Lifespan: 8–12 years
Seriously Fish lists the species at 200–250 mm (20–25 cm) standard length and recommends water of 24–30 °C, pH 5.5–7.5 and hardness of 18–268 ppm. It requires a flowing-river setup with rocks, sand and structures that break lines of sight, and clean, oxygen-rich water.
Diet
Seriously Fish describes Pseudacanthicus cf. leopardus as omnivorous with a strong preference for invertebrate (meaty) foods. It accepts sinking dried foods, frozen Daphnia, mosquito larvae, bloodworm and prawn or shrimp, along with some vegetable matter.
Compatibility
This is a semi-aggressive, bottom-dwelling and largely nocturnal catfish. It needs broken lines of sight to reduce conflict and is best kept away from other territorial or aggressive plecos. Calmer mid-water and upper-level tankmates are more suitable companions.
Breeding
Seriously Fish reports that it is a cave-spawner with the male responsible for brood care, and that it has been bred in aquaria. Breeding is regarded as an advanced undertaking.