Scarlet Pleco L025

Pseudacanthicus pirarara, the Scarlet Pleco (L025), is among the most breathtaking large loricariids in the aquarium trade. Its body is a rich flame-red to orange-red, densely covered with fine dark spots, and its fins are trimmed with intense red-orange that deepens with age and optimal conditions. It originates from the rocky, fast-flowing sections of the Rio Tocantins and Rio Xingu, where strong flow and high temperatures prevail.

As a member of the Pseudacanthicus genus, the Scarlet Pleco is a highly predatory, armour-plated fish with sharp lateral spines and a carnivore-leaning diet. It requires large quantities of meaty food including prawns, mussels, and high-protein sinking pellets, supplemented with occasional vegetables. At up to 30 cm it needs a spacious aquarium of 250 L or more.

The Scarlet Pleco is territorial and aggressive toward other plecos, particularly those with similar coloration. It should be kept individually with large, robust tankmates that can hold their own. It is not suitable for community setups with small or delicate fish.

Water: 26–30°C, pH 5.5–7.0, soft and highly oxygenated; strong current essential. Tank: Minimum 250 L; rocky caves, large smooth boulders, and driftwood; robust tankmates only. Feeding: Carnivore-leaning; feed prawns, mussels, bloodworms, high-protein pellets, and occasional blanched vegetables. Breeding: Cave spawner; rarely bred in captivity; male guards eggs aggressively. Compatibility: Aggressive toward other plecos and similarly sized fish; best kept with large, robust South American species.