Multiradiatus pleco - Liposarcus multiradiatus

Scientific name: Liposarcus multiradiatus

Common name: Multiradiatus pleco

Family: Loricariidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 45 - 50 cm (17.72 - 19.69 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 6.5 - 7.5

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 4 - 12°N (71.43 - 214.29ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 23 - 30 °C (73.4 - 86°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

Overview

The Multiradiatus Pleco (Liposarcus multiradiatus) is a large freshwater catfish from South America. Often mistaken for other common plecos, this species is a prolific algae grazer but grows too large for most home aquariums. While peaceful, its size and waste production require careful tank management.

Origin and Natural Habitat

Native to Brazil in South America, the Multiradiatus Pleco inhabits slow-moving rivers with sandy or muddy substrates. Due to its popularity in the aquarium trade, it is now bred in parts of Asia for retail and has been introduced to freshwater ecosystems in Hawaii, Florida, and Puerto Rico.

Appearance and Size

This species reaches an adult size of approximately 45 - 50 cm (17.72 - 19.69 inches), making it one of the larger plecos available in the trade. It has an armored body and a broad head with sucker-like mouthparts adapted for scraping algae.

Tank Requirements

• Tank Size: A minimum of 500 liters (130 gallons) is required for adult specimens.
• Water Parameters:
• pH: 6.5 - 7.5
• Water Hardness: 4 - 12°N (71 - 214 ppm)
• Temperature: 23 - 30°C (73.4 - 86°F)
• Tank Setup: Provide a sandy or fine gravel substrate with plenty of driftwood, caves, and hiding places. Strong filtration is necessary to handle their high waste output.

Temperament and Tank Mates

Multiradiatus Plecos are peaceful but grow too large for many community tanks. They can be housed with other non-aggressive, similarly sized fish such as:

• Large cichlids (e.g., Oscars, Severums)
• Other large plecos
• Silver dollars

Avoid housing them with small, delicate fish that may be disturbed by their movement or waste production.

Feeding and Diet

Multiradiatus Plecos are primarily herbivores and require a plant-based diet:

• High-quality sinking algae wafers or tablets
• Fresh vegetables such as zucchini, spinach, and lettuce
• Occasional protein supplements such as brine shrimp or bloodworms

They will also graze on aquarium algae but should not be relied upon as a primary means of tank maintenance.

Sexing

Determining the sex of this species is challenging. Males may appear more slender than females, but clear external differences are not well documented.

Breeding

Breeding in captivity is rare but possible:

• They are cave spawners, requiring an enclosed space for egg-laying.
• Males guard the eggs until they hatch, which takes approximately 9 days.
• Newly hatched fry can be fed brine shrimp nauplii and powdered fry foods.

Lifespan

With proper care, this species can live up to 10 years in captivity.

Common Misidentification

There is ongoing debate over whether Liposarcus multiradiatus is the true "common pleco" or if that title belongs to Hypostomus plecostomus. The primary distinction between the two species lies in the number of dorsal fin rays.

Conclusion

The Multiradiatus Pleco (Liposarcus multiradiatus) is a large and peaceful algae grazer best suited for spacious aquariums. While often purchased as a juvenile, its substantial adult size makes it an impractical choice for most home aquariums. Proper tank conditions, diet, and filtration are essential to its long-term health.