Leopard cactus pleco - Pseudacanthicus leopardus

Scientific name: Pseudacanthicus leopardus

Common name: Leopard cactus pleco

Family: Loricariidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 20 - 24 cm (7.87 - 9.45 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 6.1 - 7

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 4 - 13°N (71.43 - 232.14ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 23 - 28 °C (73.4 - 82.4°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: South America

Temperament to its own species: peaceful

Temperament toward other fish species: peaceful

Usual place in the tank: Bottom levels

Origin

The Leopard Cactus Pleco (Pseudacanthicus leopardus) originates from the waterways of South America, specifically in the rivers of Guyana. These fish are typically found in fast-flowing rivers with rocky or sandy substrates, where they use caves and crevices for shelter. The conditions in their natural habitat should be replicated in captivity to ensure their well-being.

Lifespan

With proper care, the Leopard Cactus Pleco can live up to 12 years or more in captivity. Maintaining a clean, well-filtered environment, providing a balanced diet, and ensuring that the aquarium meets their specific needs are key factors in promoting their longevity.

General Care

The Leopard Cactus Pleco is generally peaceful but becomes territorial as it matures, especially with other bottom-dwelling fish. They thrive in aquariums with plenty of hiding places, such as bogwood, rocks, or PVC pipes. As a nocturnal species, they prefer subdued lighting and will often hide during the day, becoming more active at night.

Since this pleco is a large fish, reaching up to 24 cm (9.45 inches) in length, they require a spacious tank, preferably 300 liters (about 80 gallons) or larger, to allow for sufficient swimming room. Using sand as the substrate is recommended to prevent injury to their delicate barbels. Additionally, the aquarium should have ample open space at the bottom, making it unsuitable for densely planted setups.

The Leopard Cactus Pleco is a high waste producer, meaning a powerful filtration system is essential to maintain water quality. Regular water changes are crucial to prevent waste buildup and keep the water clean. When housed with other large fish, maintaining water quality becomes even more important, as the bioload will increase.

Food and Feeding

The Leopard Cactus Pleco is primarily a carnivorous species, though it benefits from some vegetable matter in its diet. Mature specimens will readily accept meaty foods such as mussels, prawns, and fish fillets. It's important to offer them occasional plant-based foods, such as cucumber slices, shelled peas, or spirulina flake, to ensure a balanced diet. They will also enjoy protein-rich treats like bloodworms or tubifex worms. Regular feedings of varied food help maintain their health, promote vibrant coloration, and support growth.

Sexing

Sexing Leopard Cactus Plecos can be done by comparing the size and body shape of mature fish. Males tend to be slimmer with more pronounced spines on their fins, while females are generally larger and have a rounder body, especially when carrying eggs. These differences become more noticeable as the fish reach sexual maturity.

Breeding

There are no confirmed reports of Pseudacanthicus leopardus breeding in home aquariums. In the wild, they are known as cave spawners, digging out caves along riverbanks to create nests for their eggs. The male plays a significant role in parental care, guarding the eggs and the nest while the female is typically chased away after spawning. If breeding is attempted in captivity, providing caves and simulating their natural environment may help encourage spawning behavior, though success is rare.

Short Description

The Leopard Cactus Pleco (Pseudacanthicus leopardus) is a visually striking species with a distinctive spotted pattern that resembles a leopard’s coat. This pleco is peaceful but becomes territorial as it matures, especially toward other bottom-dwellers. It is a large fish that requires a spacious tank and high-quality water conditions due to its high waste output. Although it primarily feeds on meaty foods, it should be given some vegetable matter to maintain a balanced diet. This species can be challenging to breed in captivity but makes a rewarding addition to large, well-maintained aquariums.