Like their name suggests, the Spiny Monster Pleco is a larger growing species of Pseudacanthicus which develops heavy armor and distinctive spines along the body and fins. Found in rocky, fast-flowing water of the Rio Tocantins in Eastern Brazil, this species requires clean, clear and well-oxygenated water to thrive in the aquarium. Like most of its close relatives, the Spiny Monster Pleco is mainly carnivorous and will do best on a diet of protein rich foods such as Fluval Bug Bites and Repashy Gel Diet premix. In the aquarium, they can be territorial (especially towards other plecos) so be sure to provide plenty of hiding places such as caves or driftwood.
L160 Spiny Monster Pleco (Pseudacanthicus spinosus)
Origin: Wild Brazil
Locale: Rio Tocantins
Diet: Scavenger – algae, biofilm, invertebrates, sinking prepared & gel feeds
Adult Size: 12″+
Recommended Tank Size: 90 gallons
Compatibility: Can be territorial towards similar plecos, especially of the same genus