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
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.
......................................................................................
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.
Tips : Nice L24 are easy to find. Most importantly get one in good condition.
......................................................................................
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.
No comments:
Post a Comment