Papa Lyretail Pleco L088

Pseudacanthicus sp. L088, the Papa Lyretail Pleco, is a spectacular and imposing loricariid from the Rio Tocantins in Brazil. Its most distinctive feature is the dramatically elongated upper and lower lobes of the caudal fin, forming a classic lyre shape that becomes more pronounced with age. The body is dark grey to brown, covered in sharp odontode spines along the flanks that make handling hazardous. It is a highly predatory species with a carnivorous diet centred on meaty foods.

At up to 35 cm the Papa Lyretail requires a large aquarium of at least 350 L with very powerful filtration. Large caves and overhangs are essential for this territorial species. It should be kept individually as the dominant pleco in the tank. Its aggression toward other Pseudacanthicus and large plecos is significant — it should never be housed with other Pseudacanthicus species.

Breeding in captivity is rarely achieved and requires extremely large, well-established setups with perfect water quality. The Papa Lyretail is a species for experienced advanced keepers who can provide the space, diet, and filtration it demands.

Water: 24–28°C, pH 6.0–7.5, soft to moderately hard; very powerful filtration and strong flow. Tank: Minimum 350 L; very large caves, smooth rocks, driftwood; robust large tankmates only. Feeding: Carnivore; large prawns, mussels, whole fish pieces, bloodworms, high-protein pellets. Breeding: Cave spawner; extremely rarely achieved in captivity; requires enormous, mature, stable aquarium. Compatibility: Aggressive toward other plecos especially Pseudacanthicus; peaceful with large, robust, dissimilar fish.