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Midwest Aquarium and Pond Supplier LLC

(11) L600 Leopard Cactus Pleco 2in

(11) L600 Leopard Cactus Pleco 2in

$100.00 USD
$100.00 USD
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The L600 pleco, also known as the Leopard Cactus Pleco (Pseudacanthicus leopardus), is a large, carnivorous, and highly territorial armored catfish from the fast-flowing, rocky river basins of Brazil and Guyana

. It is a stunning but demanding fish best suited for advanced hobbyists with a large, species-appropriate aquarium. 

Appearance
  • Coloration: The L600 pleco is known for its striking pattern of dark spots over a golden-tan body, resembling a leopard's coat. Juveniles often have bright orange or red coloration on their dorsal and caudal fins that fades as they mature and develop their spots.
  • Physical features: Like all cactus plecos in the Pseudacanthicus genus, it has a robust, armored body with prominent spines on its head and fins, giving it a formidable appearance

    .
  • Size: This is a large species, capable of growing to 15–20 inches in captivity with proper care. 

Care and tank setup
  • Tank size: A minimum tank size of 120–150 gallons is recommended for a single adult L600 pleco. A larger tank is necessary for housing multiple specimens to mitigate territorial aggression.
  • Water parameters: They require stable and clean, well-oxygenated water with strong flow, mimicking their natural riverine habitat.
    • Temperature:

      77–86°F (25–30°C).
    • pH:

      5.5–7.5.
  • Aquascaping: The tank should have a sandy substrate or fine gravel to protect their delicate mouth and barbels. Provide a network of caves, smooth rocks, and driftwood to serve as hiding spots and territorial markers.
  • Filtration: A powerful filtration system and regular, large water changes are essential to maintain pristine water quality, as they produce a high bio-load. 

Diet and feeding
  • Carnivorous: The L600 pleco is primarily carnivorous, unlike many algae-eating plecos.
  • Recommended foods: A varied diet is crucial for their health and vibrant coloration.
    • High-quality sinking pellets formulated for carnivores

      .
    • Meaty frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, krill, and chopped mollusks.
    • Some vegetable matter, such as zucchini or algae wafers, should also be offered.
  • Feeding schedule: As a nocturnal scavenger, it is best to feed them after the lights are off. 

Behavior and tank mates
  • Temperament: The L600 pleco is known for being territorial and semi-aggressive, especially toward other plecos and bottom-dwelling fish.
  • Tank mates:
    • Compatible:

      Suitable tank mates are large, peaceful to semi-aggressive fish that occupy the mid-to-upper water column, such as large cichlids (like severums) and large tetras.
    • Incompatible: Avoid small, delicate fish that could be seen as food and other territorial bottom-dwellers, especially other plecos. 

Breeding
Breeding the L600 pleco in a home aquarium is challenging but has been achieved by experienced hobbyists. It involves stimulating natural conditions and providing suitable spawning caves.
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