L160, Spiny Monster Pleco

Geographic Origin and Biotope: Endemic to the Rio Tocantins and its tributaries (Brazil). Dominates the depths of large turbulent rivers, hiding in the dark under colossal granitic rocks and fallen trees wedged in the current.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Spiny Monster Pleco (L160 / Pseudacanthicus spinosus). One of the colossi of the family. The epithet "spinosus" leaves no escape: it is fully covered with very sturdy nail-like quills. Stocky shape, armored and massive skull.

Social Behavior: Overbearing, shy but brutal if threatened. Chooses a single "rocky cave" in the tank and elects it as its fortress, destroying any fish that ventures there or obstructs the entrance. Cohabitation with other plecos is highly discouraged.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Deep brown or black mottled with fawn or ocher nuances, less defined than the "Leopard". Lacks the red on the fins typical of the L114. Imposing male with impressive brushes of lateral odontodes and on the first pectoral ray.

Aquarium Setup: The size (up to almost 40 cm / 16 inches) dictates tanks from 200 cm (80 inches) and up. Immovable rocky setup or giant opaque PVC pipes. The current delivered by the pumps must approach that of a mountain stream. Will uproot any plant.

Diet and Feeding: Strict predator and scavenger. Feed exclusively with a massive protein diet: thick slices of white fish, whole shelled shrimp, mussels, large earthworms, and gigantic slow-release carnivorous tablets.

Water Quality: Enormous biological load (huge protein and fecal waste). Essential an industrial filtration (large Sump with porous sponges and massive biomedia) and 50% changes of warm water on a weekly basis.

Compatibility and Tankmates: Abyssal companion for large Central American cichlids, large pacus (Colossoma), or Datnioides. Alone it acts as a perfect benthic waste predator. WARNING: can injure and tear apart slowed or sick fish.

Aquarium Reproduction: Almost a myth in hobbyist aquarium keeping. Rarely achieved in bare specific tanks where two breeders engage in a furious clash. Gigantic yellow eggs brooded by the male with incredible impetuosity.

Risks and Diseases: Unscratchable fish, but its quills act as a death trap in nets or cloth baskets often causing very serious injuries in the attempt to free it. Always handle it using sturdy plastic containers.