Pseudacanthicus Spinosus L096-Spotted Cactus Pleco

🌵 Pseudacanthicus spinosus – L096 Spotted Cactus Pleco Care Guide

The Spotted Cactus Pleco (L096), scientifically identified as Pseudacanthicus spinosus, is a robust and striking member of the Loricariidae family. Hailing from Brazil's Rio Tocantins and Araguaia River systems, this pleco is characterized by its spiny appearance, armored body, and a pattern of sharp black spots scattered across a grey or olive base. It is well-suited to aquarists who appreciate larger, semi-aggressive bottom dwellers with dramatic looks and powerful presence.

🐟 Species Overview

• Scientific Name: Pseudacanthicus spinosus

• L-number: L096

• Common Name: Spotted Cactus Pleco

• Origin: Rio Tocantins & Rio Araguaia, Brazil

• Adult Size: 10–12 inches (25–30 cm)

• Lifespan: 10–15 years with proper care

• Temperament: Semi-aggressive, especially with other bottom dwellers

• Activity Level: Nocturnal; appreciates a well-structured environment

🏡 Aquarium Setup

• Minimum Tank Size: 100 gallons (380 liters)

• Substrate: Fine sand or smooth gravel

• Décor:

  • Provide ample hiding spaces using driftwood, rock caves, and ceramic pleco tubes

  • Create multiple territories to reduce aggression

• Lighting: Low to moderate; prefers shaded or dim environments

• Water Flow: Moderate to strong current, mimicking natural river systems

• Filtration: Oversized biological and mechanical filtration is essential due to the species' size and protein-rich diet

💡 These plecos are muscular and territorial—space and shelter are crucial for stress-free cohabitation.

💧 Water Parameters

• Temperature: 79–86°F (26–30°C)

• pH Range: 6.0–7.5

• Hardness: 5–15 dGH

• TDS: 100–250 ppm

• Water Changes: 30–50% weekly to maintain excellent water quality

🧪 High oxygenation and stable conditions are key. Add an air stone or powerhead to increase dissolved oxygen, especially in warmer tanks.

🍽️ Diet & Feeding

Pseudacanthicus spinosus is a carnivorous-leaning omnivore. In the wild, it feeds on aquatic invertebrates, biofilm, and organic debris. In captivity, its diet should be rich in protein with occasional plant matter.

• Staple Foods:

  • Sinking carnivore pellets

  • High-protein pleco wafers

• Protein Supplements:

  • Chopped shrimp, krill, bloodworms, mussels

• Vegetables (optional):

  • Blanched zucchini, peas, or cucumber 1–2 times per week

• Feeding Schedule: Once or twice daily, preferably in the evening

⚠️ This pleco is not an efficient algae grazer and should not be relied upon for tank cleaning.

🤝 Compatibility & Tankmates

• Good Tankmates:

  • Medium to large peaceful fish: Severums, Geophagus, large barbs, Congo tetras

  • Surface and mid-water species that don’t compete for territory

• Avoid:

  • Other large plecos (unless tank is very large with visual breaks)

  • Small or fragile fish that may be outcompeted or stressed

  • Aggressive cichlids that can cause constant territorial disputes

💡 Keep only one Pseudacanthicus species per tank unless it's extremely large and well-divided.

🐣 Breeding Information

Breeding Pseudacanthicus spinosus is rare in captivity, and not well-documented outside of advanced or professional setups.

• Spawning Method: Cave spawner

• Conditions Required:

  • Warm water (84°F+), strong current, and high oxygen levels

  • Multiple pleco caves of varying diameters and lengths

• Behavior: Males may guard and fan the eggs

• Fry Care: Feed finely crushed carnivore pellets or baby brine shrimp; maintain very clean water

🔍 Mature males may develop larger odontodes (spines) on cheeks and pectoral fins.

📝 Care Summary

🔧 Tips for Success

• Offer multiple caves and hiding zones to manage territorial behavior

• Use sinking protein-based foods that match their natural preference

• Keep driftwood in the tank for shelter, though this species does not require it for digestion

• Ensure ample oxygen, especially at higher temperatures or when feeding heavily