Leopard Cactus Pleco L114

Leopard Cactus Pleco L114Leopard Cactus Pleco L114 (Pseudacanthicus leopardus) The Leopard Cactus Pleco (L114) is a bold and powerful showpiece catfish prized for its dramatic coloration, spiny features, and unique armored appearance. Native to Brazils Rio Demini, this species belongs to the Pseudacanthicus genus, often referred to as "cactus plecos" due to their pronounced odontodes (spines) and robust body structure. Key Features Coloration: Dark chocolate to black body

Leopard Cactus Pleco – L114

(Pseudacanthicus leopardus)

The Leopard Cactus Pleco (L114) is a bold and powerful showpiece catfish prized for its dramatic coloration, spiny features, and unique armored appearance. Native to Brazil’s Rio Demini, this species belongs to the Pseudacanthicus genus, often referred to as "cactus plecos" due to their pronounced odontodes (spines) and robust body structure.

Key Features

• Coloration: Dark chocolate to black body adorned with bright orange to red leopard-like spots

• Fins: Large, flared dorsal and pectoral fins often edged in orange or red

• Texture: Covered in fine spines along the head and pectoral region, especially in males

• Adult Size: 30–35 cm (12–14 inches)

• Lifespan: Up to 15 years in optimal conditions

Behavior & Temperament

• Temperament: Territorial, especially with other bottom-dwellers or plecos

• Activity: Nocturnal by nature but can adapt to daytime feeding

• Tank Position: Bottom dweller that appreciates caves and shaded zones

• Best Kept: Alone or with fast, robust tankmates—avoid delicate species

Aquarium Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 300 liters (80 gallons) or larger

• Water Parameters:

  • Temperature: 26–30°C (79–86°F)

  • pH: 6.2–7.5

  • Hardness: Soft to moderately hard

• Décor: Plenty of hiding spots using rocks, driftwood, and sturdy caves

• Substrate: Sand or smooth gravel

• Filtration: Strong, with high oxygenation and excellent water quality

Diet

Carnivorous to omnivorous:

• Meaty foods: frozen shrimp, mussels, bloodworms, carnivore pellets

• Occasional vegetables (zucchini, cucumber)

• Avoid too much algae-based food—this species prefers protein

Breeding

Breeding in captivity is rare and challenging:

• Cave-spawning species

• Males become highly territorial

• Requires very large, species-specific setups with perfect water conditions

Ideal For

• Advanced aquarists and collectors

• South American biotope aquariums

• Display tanks showcasing rare and exotic plecos

***Photos of actual fish in our tank*** If you like updated photo please contact us and we will send you photos/video of actual fish that you are purchasing.