L190 Royal Pleco Profile

Scientific Name : Panaque nigrolineatus (Peters, 1877), L190
Family: Loricariidae
Common Name : Red Eyed Royal Pleco
Maximum Length : 50cm / 9"
Origin : Rio Pucuno, Ecuador
pH Level : 6.0 - 7.0
Things to note: Royals are consistent in one thing: they defecate a lot, and will be a huge tax on the filtration system. Always overfiltrate when keeping Panaque because of their wood eating nature.

Personal comments : I have refrained from specializing in Panaques especially because they are prone to the Panaque disease, which wipes out entire tanks of Royals in a very short span of time. That said, my Royal has been in my tank for quite a while and is still doing well.

Tips : Choose a good piece with straight lines, and avoid stressing out the fish or keeping it in a tank too small for its growth.
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Sexual dimporphism / reproduction : The fish has been spawned in captivity using some form of tube in a large tank (approx. 125 US Gallons). A false dry season of two weeks (low, warm, still water) was used. Then the tank was topped off with cooler rainwater (refilling about 80%). Lots of meaty and veggie foods were offered. The pair spawned within days. Of course size would be the biggest stumbling block.

Feeding : This suckermouth catfish is a wood-eater. Mostly vegetarian diet.

Behavior in captivity : It is mostly hiding, but comes out readily to feed. Territorial with conspecifics and other similarly sized catfish although otherwise peaceful with smaller fish. More write ups on PCF here.

L273 Titanicus Pleco Profile

Scientific Name : Pseudacanthicus sp. L273
Family : Loricariidae
Common Name : Red Titanicus Pleco
Maximum Length : 30cm / 12"
Origin : Rio Tapajos, Brazil
pH Level : 6.0 - 7.0
Things to note: A variably marked species, the best examples of which can be unbelievably beautifully marked. Other individuals are no where near as striking in appearance but all can be identified by an unusual almost metallic sheen displayed on the back half of the body of the fish. However as the fish gets bigger its beautiful spots become mottled and messy.

Personal comments : My L273 is invariably shy and does not enjoy movng around in the day at all. I liked it initially, but after getting good specimens of L24 and L25 it pales in comparison. My L273 broke its tail 1 month ago, and almost 1" has since grown back. Left with 1/2" worth of uneven tail.

Tips : L273 is attractive when young and is easy to get. Find a piece that is mostly coloured, because the mottling will then be less pronounced when it gets bigger.
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Sexual dimporphism / reproduction : Males appear to display the brighter more cosmetically attractive patterning. Females are more drab even from an early age.

Feeding : Carnivore although not a predator, prawns and chopped mussel appear favourites and promote favourable growth. Some vegetable should also be provided and thus balances diet.

Behavior in captivity : Generally peaceful but territorial from a young age. Some large specimens are aggressively territorial and may cause problems if housed with other large nocturnal fish.

L360 Gold Trim Pleco Profile

Scientific Name : Hypostomus sp. L360
Family : Loricariidae
Common Name : Gold Trim Pleco
Maximum Length : 30cm / 12"
Origin : Rio Jamanxim, Brazil
pH Level : 6.0 - 7.4

Things to note: There is very little literature available on the species on the Internet, and the best way to find out more about this species is to ask experienced L360 keepers for advice. It is rumoured that a L360 comm tank is extremely beautiful.
*Postnote: Since this post I have been to bro Titus' house: He keeps over eight L360s and one L360a(speckled body) and it is wondrous to see this species given such warm attention by an enthusiastic keeper.*

Personal comments : My L360 is highly intelligent, and shifts its location according the time of the day; it hides under its favourite piece of wood in the day, and hangs onto the side of the glass at night. When moving its fins move like legs and it is a highly amusing as well as beautiful pleco to keep.

Tips : Keeping this fish in a comm tank may reduce its aggression to a large extent.

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Sexual dimporphism / reproduction : Not known.

Feeding : It is omnivorous, and will eat just about anything.

Behavior in captivity : This potentially large pleco is amusingly docile, but is liable to dart around the tank when frightened. When calm it moves using its bottom 4 fins, and when it opens and closes its dorsal fin as it moves, it is enchanting to watch.

L264 Sultan Pleco Profile

Scientific Name : Leporanthicus joselimai sp. L264(Isbrucker & Nijssen, 1989)
Family : Loricariidae
Common Name : Sultan Pleco
Maximum Length : 15cm / 6"
Origin : Rio Tapajos, Brazil
pH Level : 6.0 - 7.6
Things to note: The Sultan pleco is predominantly a carnivore, as can be seen from its canine structure. Do not feed it vegetarian food only without protein content. It may be confused with the L160 Spiny Monster Pleco because of its dark body with black spots, but a closer examination of its canines, as well as its distinct greyer scales compared to the dark brown of L160 will reveal its identity.

Personal comments : This species belong to the Leporanthicus or vampire pleco family, because of their extremely long fangs. Other plecos in the family include the L007, L91, L172a and L240.

Tips : This pleco is very shy, and I have yet to see him forage for food. Will update this when I get to know it more.
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Sexual dimporphism / reproduction : Adult males have a much longer and broader head with small odontodes on the sides of head, more odontodes on pectoral fin spine and on the whole body, a bigger dorsal fin and normally a prettier coloration.

Feeding : A close look at the teeth of this pleco reveals we're dealing with a carnivore. Meaty foods like shrimp, krill, mussels, pieces of fish, blood worms, mosquito larvae, sinking carnivore wafers etc. are readily accepted. Once acclimatized, this species will also eat algae/bottomdwellers tablets and possibly even fresh vegetables.

Besides being a carnivore, the Sultan Pleco also appears to be a 'substrat filter feeder': I've often observed my specimen shuffling through the gravel in a forward dashing motion, after which it moves forwards over the 'trench' it just created. During this, it seems it use its huge sucker mouth as a net, sucking up small particles that were just whirled up: food is swallowed, inedible material such as wood particles and gravel are expelled through the gill slits.

Behavior in captivity : Being territorial, this species can be unfriendly towards its own kind and similar looking fish. Bottom dwellers of different color and pattern are usually left alone, although things may heaten up during feeding time.

Megalancistrus cf. barrae Pleco Profile

Scientific Name : Megalancistrus cf. barrae

Family : Loricariidae
Common Name : Mega

Maximum Length : 60cm / 30"
Origin : Rio Tocantins, Brazil
pH Level : 6.4 - 7.6

Things to note: Megas grow to become one of the biggest available plecos. Coupled with its notoriously boisterous nature, it is better as the sole display specimen, or commed with larger plecos.

Personal comments : I am drawn to the Mega not only because it has a very strong personality, but also because it seems to glow a wonderful gold colour when settled. [Afternote] I have gotten my mega, and I can assure you this: it's even more beautiful than I thought! The spikes are glorious, and amazingly only the spikes are yellow; the body base is dark. This gives my Mega a shimmery kind of colour texture.. Amazing!

Tips : Grab one wherever you see one! Rare and beautiful beyond belief.
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Sexing and Breeding : Not Known

Feeding : The mega is an omnivore. It will happily accept prawn, mussels, cockle and small pieces of fish. Large bloodworms are also welcome. It needs vegetable matter in its diet and will eat cucumber, spinach, potato and sweet potato. Provide fruit, such as mango, as a delicacy.

Behaviour in Captivity : Extremely aggressive fish, ready to defend its supremacy in the tank with fights. Territorial disputes are quite common. It is likely to stress other less aggressive or smaller bottom dwelling fish. To make it moderate its behaviour ensure it is not the biggest bottom dweller in your tank.

Like many larger plecos, this up to 20" fish from Eastern Brazil can be very territorial. Larger specimens can injure each other during fights. Because of their extremely sharp spines, they must be handled with care. If you must pick one up, hold it by the head or pectoral fins. Grabbing it by the tail can cause it to panic, resulting in injury either to the fish or the fishkeeper. Any stone structures or driftwood used must be securely fastened, as fish this strong can easily collapse poorly constructed tank decor. On the positive side, Megaancistrus are excellent fish for aquaria with large territorial cichlids like Crenicichla or Cichlasomines. However, you must take care to be sure your catfish get enough food (frozen shrimp, bloodworm and vegetables).

Acanthicus Adonis Albino Pleco Profile

Scientific Name : Acanthicus Adonis (Isbrucker & Nijssen, 1988)
Family : Loricariidae
Common Name : Albino Adonis
Maximum Length : 60cm / 30"
Origin : Rio Tocantins, Brazil
pH Level : 6.4 - 7.6

Things to note: Adonis is one of the biggest available plecos, and will quickly outgrow a smaller tank. Be sure to provide a large enough tank to prevent stunting of growth, as well as enough space in the tank to prevent fights.

Personal comments : Adonis is well known for being a very active as well as territorial pleco. Its unique body shape, thin and streamlined, easily differentiates it from others. A large potential size means that it has a lot of catching up to do in terms of growth; my 2" Adonis grew to 3" within a month!

Tips : Although it is obviously pleasing to the eye to choose a heavily spotted specimen, it is inevitable that the spots will disappear with time. There is however instances where 6" specimens are still heavily endowed with spots, but these are the exceptions rather than the norms, and prices follow accordingly.

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Sexing and Breeding : Males have thick odontal growth on the first ray of the pectoral fins and their back. It has been bred in captivity.

Feeding : Acanthicus Adonis is an omnivore. It will happily accept prawn, mussels, cockle and small pieces of fish. Large bloodworms are also welcome. It needs vegetable matter in its diet and will eat cucumber, spinach, potato and sweet potato. Provide fruit, such as mango, as a delicacy. The fish will rasp on wood. Young fish feed almost exclusively on algae and biofilm. As the fish grows up it ceases to manifest a specific preference in algae.

Behaviour in Captivity : Quite an aggressive fish, ready to defend its supremacy in the tank with fights. Territorial disputes are quite common. It is likely to stress other less aggressive or smaller bottom dwelling fish. Given time, and once it gets used to its tank mates the fights will cease, provided there is enough food and space for all. To make it moderate its behaviour ensure it is not the biggest bottom dweller in your tank.

L128 Blue Phantom Pleco Profile

Scientific Name : Hemiancistrus sp. L128
Family : Loricariidae
Common Name : Blue Spot Pleco
Maximum Length : 17cm / 7"
Origin : Rio Orinoco, Venezuela - A black water river
pH Level : 6.0 - 7.0

Things to note: L128 live in a blackwater river and hence blackwater extract or lots of wood will make it easier to acclimatize.

Personal comments : L128 is one of the more popular plecos in the world. It is one of only two blue plecos (the other being L239) and in term of personality and beauty it far outstrips the latter. It comes from the same stretch of river as the L200, and it is conjectured that they look the same (sans the colour difference) because they ARE the same, just a colour variation. My L128 is the most active (and fiercest) pleco in my tank, and moves around all day.

Tips : There are two things to look out for when choosing a L128. Firstly, it must be as well spotted as possible (such a specimen would be rare), and secondly it is more desirable to have white rims on its dorsal and caudal fins.
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Sexual dimporphism / reproduction : Not known.

Feeding : A look at the mouth of the Blue Phantom Pleco reveals that this species is an "Aufwuchs" eater. Aufwuchs is the organic layer, part plant, part animal (small crustaceans, fresh water sponges, small insects and their eggs, plankton), that over time develops on submerged surfaces. The fish uses its large diskshaped suckermouth, equipped with a large amount of tiny teeth, to graze on these surfaces. Once acclimatized, this species of Loricarid will usually readily accept meaty foods (bloodworms, mosquito larvae, artemia, tubifex) as well as vegetable matter (vegetables, pellet food, algae and, to the dismay of many aquarists, also aquarium plants). The emphasis should be on vegetable matter, as a diet that is too proteine-rich can lead to digestive problems, ingestation and bloat.

Behavior in captivity : This medium-sized Loricarid prefers a dimly lit tank with a good number of hiding places, either created with plants, drift wood, rocks or artificial (pleco spawning) caves. To keep more than one adult specimen in the same tank, or together with other bottomdwelling fish, you need at least a 48x20" (120x50 cm.) tank or larger: this fish can be quite territorial, and when suitable hiding places are lacking, it can be agressive towards other bottom dwellers. When kept as only catfish in an aquarium, a tank size of 40x16" (100x40 cm.) is sufficient, although a 48" (120cm.) aquarium would be better.

L128 requires warm and very oxygen-rich water, preferably soft and slightly acidic water (pH 6.0-6.5). Also, lots of underwater currents are appreciated. A powerful filter system is recommended, as this fish produces a lot of waste.

L200 Green Spot Pleco Profile

Scientific Name : Hemiancistrus subviridis L200
Family : Loricariidae
Common Name : Green Spot Pleco
Maximum Length : 17cm / 7"
Origin : Rio Orinoco, Venezuela (another similar species known as High-fin L200, Baryancistrus demantoides) - A black water river
pH Level : 6.0 - 7.4

Things to note: There are 2 types of L200, one being the Baryancistrus demantoide, and the other being this featured species, Hemiancistrus subviridis. They are differentiated by body shape and dorsal fin structure. B. demantoides also has the high fin variant.

Personal comments : I bought my 6" L200 to be a partner for my L128. Personally I think I like it more than my L128 now! This giant has chew chew, is heavily spotted (having seen a lot being sold at LFS, I can safely say my piece has the most spots I've ever seen) up to the end of the dorsal fin, and it is beautiful to watch. It is currently still slightly unstable though, and I will have to monitor it closely.

Tips : There are a few colour variations even within the species. It can range from mustard green to bright green, with yellow spots. A better specimen will have more spots evenly spread out over its body.

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Sexual dimporphism / reproduction : Not known.

Feeding : A look at the mouth of the Green Phantom Pleco reveals that this species is an "Aufwuchs" eater.

Behavior in captivity : This medium-sized Loricarid prefers a dimly lit tank with a good number of hiding places, either created with plants, drift wood, rocks or artificial (pleco spawning) caves. When suitable hiding places are lacking, it can be agressive towards other bottom dwellers.

L200 requires warm and very oxygen-rich water, preferably soft and slightly acidic water (pH 6.0-6.5). Also, lots of underwater currents are appreciated. A powerful filter system is recommended, as this fish produces a lot of waste.

For more information about the 2 types of L200, click here

L24 Redfin Cactus Pleco Profile

Scientific Name : Pseudacanthicus cf. serratus L24
Family : Loricariidae
Common Name : Redfin Cactus Pleco
Maximum Length : 30cm / 11"
Origin : Rio Tocantins, Brazil (A brown body variant coming from Rio Turucui) - A black water river
pH Level : 6.0 - 7.4

Things to note: Like their cousins L25, aeration and pH are the most important factors in keeping L24. The flow rate of the powerhead is not important, although I find that my bigger L24s particularly enjoy swimming against current. Note that young fish are extremely sensitive to ammonia and nitrite, and overfiltration is always recommended. Also, pseudas are known for their boisterous nature. Be sure to cover the top of your tank, or leave some gap between the water level and the top of the tank.

Personal comments : L24 pleco is a cheaper version of the L25. There are many similarities in the 2 species, including the wide disparity in the redness on the fins. It is much easier to find 7 pointer red L24s than L25s, and their prices are mostly half that of an L25. That said, I have found my 2 L24s to have their own unique personalities, and completely unlike the shy plecos that they are known for. To some, their mustard green/brown bodies are more attractive than the L25's black.

My old favourite (bottom picture) passed away earlier this year. It was easily the most beautiful looking pleco in my tank, and a good size too at 7". My new piece just came in in May 08, and at 10" SL, it's looking a stunner too!

Tips : Nice L24 are easy to find. Most importantly get one in good condition.

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Sexual dimporphism / reproduction : The odontal growth on the first pectoral ray of the males is considerably denser than this of the females. As the fish grow the males become longer and more slender by comparison to the shorter and chubbier females. There have been some references to reproduction in aquaria, though not fully documented. The fish is considered to be a cave spawner. (from net - my L24s are well below breeding size)

Feeding : Carnivore but not a predator. Favours prawns as well as small pieces of fish. Provide some vegetables for a balanced diet. When it gets used to the aquarium it will also eat pellets and wafers.

Behavior in captivity : L24s are mostly shy and introverted fish and require low lighting or darkness and a cave they can call their own. Despite their size (they are giants!) they are not aggressive towards other bottom dwellers and will happily let them share their space. Yet, they are particularly aggressive and territorial towards conspecifics. Should there be a challenge expect to see violent fights and bullying until the hierarchy is established. Provide clearly separated spaces for them in the tank and ensure each stays there by minimising the need for them to look for food outside their space. Given time they will get used to each others presence and learn to live harmoniously. L24s will adapt easier to the aquarium if introduced at a young age. Give them time to get used to their new home. Prepare a space for their own exclusive use (preferably near a water outlet or an airpump). The fish are not particularly active outside feeding times, they prefer to stay in their cave, especially during daytime.

L25 Scarlet Cactus Pleco Profile

Scientific Name : Pseudacanthicus sp. L25
Family : Loricariidae
Common Name : Scarlet Cactus Pleco
Maximum Length : 45cm / 17"
Origin : Rio Xingu, Brazil (A red body variant coming from Sao Felix) - A black water river
pH Level : 6.0 - 7.4
Things to note: Aeration and pH are the most important factors in keeping L25. The flow rate of the powerhead is not important. Note that young fish are extremely sensitive to ammonia and nitrite, and overfiltration is always recommended. Also, pseudas are known for their boisterous nature. Be sure to cover the top of your tank, or leave some gap between the water level and the top of the tank.

Personal comments : L25 pleco is the most sought after pleco in Asia that is easily available, possibly only being eclipsed by the ubiquitious L46 Zebra for fame. As a pseuda species, it is a joy to watch these fish "hunt" for food: they glide over the substrate gracefully yet forcefully. The main attraction of course is the striking colour combination of red fins against a black body; 7-pointer red variants are the most sought after as well as expensive plecos around. With eyes that shine a dull yellow, they carry a sinister look that a Hypan species can never portray. It is highy territorial and aggressive to other plecos of the same size, and with its sharp teeth and body spikes, it normally gets its way. Look towards the June 2006 4" L25 batch from Joy and Fish Haven for an understanding of true L25 quality: 7 pointer with full tail red, and very long lyretail.

Tips : Keep the L25 in a tank with black Oyama, where its body will become darker. Coupled with a red light tube to accentuate the red colour of its fins, it becomes an awesome display fish immediately.
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Sexual dimporphism / reproduction : The odontal growth on the first pectoral ray of the males is considerably denser than this of the females. As the fish grow the males become longer and more slender by comparison to the shorter and chubbier females. There have been some references to reproduction in aquaria, though not fully documented. The fish is considered to be a cave spawner. (from net - my L25s are well below breeding size)

Feeding : Carnivore but not a predator. Favours prawns as well as small pieces of fish. Provide some vegetables for a balanced diet. When it gets used to the aquarium it will also eat pellets and wafers.

Behavior in captivity : L25s are mostly shy and introverted fish and require low lighting or darkness and a cave they can call their own. Despite their size (they are giants!) they are not aggressive towards other bottom dwellers and will happily let them share their space. Yet, they are particularly aggressive and territorial towards conspecifics. Should there be a challenge expect to see violent fights and bullying until the hierarchy is established. Due to their size and strength fights may have detrimental outcomes. Provide clearly separated spaces for them in the tank and ensure each stays there by minimising the need for them to look for food outside their space. Given time they will get used to each others presence and learn to live harmoniously.

L25s will adapt easier to the aquarium if introduced at a young age. Give them time to get used to their new home. Prepare a space for their own exclusive use (preferably near a water outlet or an airpump). The fish are not particularly active outside feeding times, they prefer to stay in their cave, especially during daytime.

Munch munch munch!!

I love these guys, each has his own temperament and personality, they eat almost everything, are mostly hardy, and they can regrow ALMOST every part of their body.. Almost like Wolverine :D

Currently I have 8 plecos (8 for prosperity in Chinese)... Of course 9 is another great number (long lasting ;))... 10 would be terrible (literally death), and 12 is my lucky number!

Here's a lowdown of my plecos. I'll be doing a summary of the species I have, and my experiences with this creatures. I'll also do a simple How-To- guide to help new hobbyists along!

1) L24 Redfin Cactus Pseuda 6"
2) L24 Redfin Cactus Pseuda 7"
3) L25 Scarlet Cactus Pseuda 3.5"
4) L27c Xingu Royal 3.5"
5) L128 Blue Spot Pleco 5"
6) L200 Green Spot Pleco 6"
7) L273 Red Titanicus Pseuda 3"
8) Veiltail Bristlenose Pleco 3"

That's it for today. Keep your eyes peeled!