Pseudacanthicus pitanga L024 PLECO

🔴 Pseudacanthicus pitanga — L024 Red Cactus Pleco Care Guide

The L024 Red Cactus Pleco, scientifically named Pseudacanthicus pitanga, is one of the most visually striking members of the Pseudacanthicus genus. This large, spiny, and vibrantly colored pleco is native to the Rio Tocantins in Brazil and is revered for its bold red-orange fins and armored body. While its beauty makes it highly desirable, its territorial behavior and size demand thoughtful care and appropriate space.

🐟 Species Overview

• Scientific Name: Pseudacanthicus pitanga

• Common Names: L024, Red Cactus Pleco, Flame Fin Cactus Pleco

• L-Number: L024

• Origin: Rio Tocantins, Brazil

• Adult Size: 12–16 inches (30–40 cm)

• Lifespan: 12–15 years in well-maintained aquariums

• Temperament: Semi-aggressive; highly territorial with other plecos

• Activity: Mostly nocturnal but will become bold once established

🏡 Aquarium Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 120 gallons (450+ liters) for an adult

• Substrate: Fine sand or smooth gravel

• Décor: Large rocks, driftwood, and custom pleco caves to establish multiple territories

• Lighting: Low to moderate; prefers subdued lighting and shaded zones

• Water Flow: Moderate to strong current preferred; mimic riverine conditions

• Filtration: Oversized biological and mechanical filtration recommended due to heavy bioload

💡 This species benefits from large, open floor space as well as tight hiding areas to reduce territorial stress.

💧 Water Parameters

• Temperature: 78–86°F (25.5–30°C)

• pH Range: 6.2–7.5

• Hardness: 4–15 dGH

• TDS: 100–250 ppm

• Water Changes: 30–50% weekly with stable parameters

💡 Consistency is key—Red Cactus Plecos are sensitive to drastic swings in water quality.

🍽️ Diet & Feeding

The L024 is primarily carnivorous, requiring a high-protein diet to support growth and health.

• Staple Diet:

  • Sinking carnivore pellets or tablets

  • High-protein pleco wafers

• Protein Additions:

  • Fresh or frozen bloodworms, mussels, krill, brine shrimp

  • Raw shrimp or white fish (chopped)

• Vegetables (optional):

  • Occasional zucchini or cucumber slices

• Feeding Schedule:

  • Feed once to twice per day, preferably at night

⚠️ Avoid feeding excessive low-protein plant-based foods—this species does not rely on algae or wood.

🤝 Tankmates & Compatibility

• Best Tankmates:

  • Medium-to-large peaceful species like Severums, Silver Dollars, Geophagus

  • Fish that occupy different tank levels

• Caution With:

  • Other large plecos or bottom dwellers (rivalry over space is common)

• Avoid:

  • Small fish that may be harassed

  • Aggressive cichlids or fast feeders that outcompete them

💡 Multiple plecos of this genus should only be kept together in extremely large tanks with ample separation and sight breaks.

🐣 Breeding Notes

Breeding Pseudacanthicus pitanga is extremely rare in captivity, but here's what is known from advanced aquarists and field reports:

• Spawning Behavior: Cave spawners; males defend the cave and fan the eggs

• Breeding Triggers: Simulate seasonal changes with cooler water and heavy feeding

• Cave Requirements: Deep, snug-fitting ceramic or stone caves

• Parental Care: Males may guard eggs and fry for several days

• Fry Diet: Baby brine shrimp, crushed carnivore pellets, and protein paste

🧠 This species requires pristine, oxygen-rich water and very stable conditions for any breeding attempt.

📝 Care Summary

🧠 Expert Tips

• Use thick glass lids or reinforced covers—L024s are powerful and may try to escape.

• Keep driftwood in the tank, even though they don’t consume it—it provides comfort and visual breaks.

• Ensure oxygen levels are high, especially at warmer temperatures.

• To maintain fin color, feed a varied protein-rich diet and keep nitrates low.