All fish / Loricariidae

Cactus Pleco

Pseudacanthicus serratus

Also known as l-065, l065, serrated pleco, cactus plec, red tail cactus pleco, プセウダカンシクス・セラトゥス, 仙人掌异型

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A large, heavily armoured suckermouth catfish with spiny scutes and a dark brown to blackish body, often with reddish fin edges. Keepers prize it as a rugged, prehistoric-looking species from the Guianas.

Care at a glance

Care level

Moderate

Temperament

Semi

Adult size

25 cm

Temperature

24 to 29 °C

pH

6 to 7.5

Smallest tank

400 litres

Keep as

Singly, or in a large tank with plenty of caves

Diet

Carnivore: sinking pellets, mussel, prawn, bloodworm and other meaty foods

Swims

Bottom of the tank

Lifespan

10 to 15 years

Water

Freshwater

Wild range

Suriname and French Guiana (Suriname, Maroni and coastal Guiana rivers)

Breeding

A cave spawner in which the male guards the eggs inside a tunnel or cave. Captive breeding is rarely reported and is difficult because of the fish's size and territorial behaviour.

Good to know

Adults become very territorial towards other bottom dwellers and need a big tank with strong flow and well-oxygenated water. Its spiny body can catch in nets, so moving it with a container is safer.