| Scarlet Dragon Pleco Pseudocanthicus sp. "L025) |
|||||
| The Plecos are really a new group of fish for me, but I'm fast becoming interested in the genus Pseudocanthicus. The Pseudo's are huge, bulky, spiny, armoured, beautiful catfish. Many of the species are dark brown and black with firey red, orange, or yellow fins. The only species that I have had the honor to keep is Pseudocanthicus sp. L025, also known as the Scarlet Dragon. I bought my Scarlet Dragon just over a year ago at the ACA 2003 convention. Mine is currently around 11"-12" and exhibits the beautiful coloration that this species is known for. These fish are not cheap and typically cost $150 for a fish over 10". This species is predatory and reaches up to 18". Pieces of freshwater mussels, shrimp, fish, and worms should make up a large percent of thier diet. Although they are predatory they should be also be offered some green foods such as lettuce, zuccinni, cucumber, and algae wafers. I bought this fish expecting it to act like a common pleco and hang on the walls out in the open all day. Unfortunately I quickly realized that this species was nocturnal and rarely surfaces during the lighted hours.. | |||||