Pseudancistrus genisetiger SLATE PLCO

🪨 Pseudancistrus genisetiger — Slate Pleco Care Guide

The Slate Pleco (Pseudancistrus genisetiger) is a beautifully armored catfish distinguished by its dark, slate-gray coloration and subtle markings. Native to fast-flowing rivers in South America, this lesser-known species offers a unique appearance and robust temperament, making it an excellent addition to large aquariums with strong current and clean water conditions.

🐟 Species Overview

• Scientific Name: Pseudancistrus genisetiger

• Common Name: Slate Pleco

• L-number: Not officially assigned; often grouped with similar Pseudancistrus species

• Origin: Coastal river basins of Guyana and Suriname

• Adult Size: 6–8 inches (15–20 cm)

• Lifespan: 8–12 years with good care

• Temperament: Peaceful but territorial with other bottom dwellers

• Activity: Primarily nocturnal, though may become more visible in calm environments

🏡 Aquarium Setup

• Minimum Tank Size: 55 gallons (208 liters) for adults

• Tank Shape: Long and wide tanks preferred over tall ones

• Substrate: Fine gravel or sand

• Décor:

  • Provide plenty of rock structures, slate caves, and driftwood

  • Ensure hiding spaces and territorial barriers

• Lighting: Low to moderate; subdued lighting mimics natural habitat

• Water Flow: Strong current appreciated—consider adding a powerhead

• Filtration: High-capacity filter system with strong mechanical and biological filtration

💧 Water Parameters

• Temperature: 76–84°F (24–29°C)

• pH Range: 6.5–7.8

• Hardness: 5–15 dGH

• TDS: 100–300 ppm

• Water Changes: 25–50% weekly to maintain excellent water quality

💡 Pseudancistrus are sensitive to high nitrate levels. Clean, well-oxygenated water is key to health and coloration.

🍽️ Diet & Feeding

The Slate Pleco is omnivorous, but its diet leans toward carnivorous preferences with occasional plant matter. It is not an algae-focused species like common plecos.

• Staple Foods:

  • Sinking carnivore pellets

  • Pleco wafers with added krill or shrimp

• Protein Additions:

  • Bloodworms, brine shrimp, chopped mussels or fish

• Vegetables (optional):

  • Zucchini, spinach, sweet potato (blanched)

• Feeding Frequency: Once to twice daily, preferably in the evening

🛑 Avoid overfeeding and promptly remove uneaten protein to prevent ammonia spikes.

🤝 Tankmates & Compatibility

• Best Tankmates:

  • Peaceful mid-to-upper level fish (tetras, rainbowfish, Geophagus)

  • Other non-aggressive plecos with different habitat zones

• Caution With:

  • Other Pseudancistrus or similar plecos unless tank is large

• Avoid:

  • Aggressive cichlids or fast-feeding surface fish that create stress

💡 Provide multiple caves and visual breaks to prevent disputes over hiding spaces.

🐣 Breeding Information

Breeding in captivity is rare but theoretically possible in well-controlled environments.

• Spawning Method: Cavity spawner

• Setup Tips:

  • Use pleco caves with narrow entrances

  • Maintain strong flow and high oxygenation

  • Simulate rainy season with cooler water changes and high-protein feeding

• Fry Rearing:

  • Once hatched, feed fry powdered food or baby brine shrimp

  • Perform gentle, frequent water changes to avoid fouling

📝 Care Summary

🔧 Pro Tips for Success

• Use slate or river rock structures to match their natural habitat

• Maintain high oxygen levels—especially in warmer tanks

• Avoid overcrowding bottom dwellers to reduce stress

• Observe behavior during feeding: shy individuals may need spot feeding

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