Spiny Cactus Pleco (Pseudacanthicus spinosus, L065) Care Guide
Pseudacanthicus spinosus is a spiny armoured catfish of the Amazon basin, a meat-eating loricariid reaching about 26 cm SL.
Overview
Pseudacanthicus spinosus, traded as L065, is a suckermouth armoured catfish of the family Loricariidae, described by Castelnau in 1855. According to FishBase, it occurs in the Amazon River basin of South America and reaches about 26.0 cm standard length. The genus comprises spiny loricariids whose abdomen is covered in small plates in adults.
Taxonomy
- Family: Loricariidae
- Genus: Pseudacanthicus
- Scientific name: Pseudacanthicus spinosus
- L-number: L065
Habitat
FishBase records the species as freshwater and demersal in the tropical Amazon basin, with a stated temperature preference of 20-24 °C. Wikipedia notes that Pseudacanthicus species generally inhabit fast-flowing South American waters and that P. spinosus has at times been considered synonymous with P. histrix.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 600 L
- Temperature: 24-28 °C (75-82 °F)
- pH: 6.0-7.5
- GH: 2-12 °dGH
- Lifespan: 8-12 years
Diet
This is a meat-oriented pleco rather than an algae grazer. The KB record classifies it as a carnivore fed once daily; sinking carnivore foods and other meaty staples suit the genus.
Compatibility
A bottom-dwelling, nocturnal and territorial species. The KB record lists tetras and Corydoras as compatible, while other aggressive or territorial plecos should be avoided.
Conservation status
FishBase rates the species with medium resilience and low vulnerability to fishing pressure.