Whitefin Leopard Cactus Pleco L163

Pseudacanthicus sp. L163, the Whitefin Leopard Cactus Pleco, is a striking and powerfully built loricariid from the blackwater rivers of the Rio Negro basin in Brazil. Its dark grey to brown body is covered with irregularly spaced pale spots reminiscent of a leopard's markings, and its fins are edged with clean white to pale yellow margins that contrast sharply against the body colour. The body is bristling with sharp odontode spines along the flanks.

At up to 30 cm this is a large, predatory fish requiring a tank of 300 L or more with very powerful filtration and large cave structures. It is an aggressive species that should be kept as the sole large pleco in the aquarium. Its carnivore-leaning diet demands regular provision of meaty foods including prawns, mussels, and high-protein pellets.

The Whitefin Leopard Cactus Pleco requires soft, acidic blackwater conditions reflective of its Rio Negro origin. Hard or alkaline water will cause chronic stress and colour fade. It is a species for advanced keepers with the space and commitment to maintain its demanding requirements.

Water: 26–30°C, pH 5.0–6.5, very soft blackwater; hard or alkaline water poorly tolerated. Tank: Minimum 300 L; very large rocky caves, driftwood, dark substrate; robust tankmates only. Feeding: Carnivore; prawns, mussels, mussel flesh, high-protein pellets, whole bloodworms. Breeding: Cave spawner; rarely achieved in captivity; very large mature setups required. Compatibility: Aggressive toward other plecos; keep with large robust dissimilar South American fish only.