Pseudacanthicus sp. L-380 Gurupi

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Introduction

Pseudacanthicus sp. L-380 Gurupi, also called Black Iron Cactus, is a Brazilian loricariid valued for its robust build and dark coloration. Listed in the aquarium trade under the code L-380, this fish remains an undescribed scientific form within the genus Pseudacanthicus. It comes from the Gurupi River basin, a warm freshwater environment generally shaped by rocks, submerged wood and sheltering cavities. Its high commercial rarity and considerable adult size make it best suited to experienced aquarists who can provide a large aquarium, strong filtration and a carefully arranged bottom area for a territorial bottom-dweller.

General species description

Pseudacanthicus sp. L-380 Gurupi is a large armored catfish of the genus Pseudacanthicus, known in the aquarium trade as L-380. Like other cactus plecos, it has a stocky body, a broad head and rows of bony plates. Its black to very dark brown coloration explains the common name Black Iron Cactus. This is a rare aquarium fish, best kept by aquarists able to provide substantial bottom space, powerful filtration and several secure retreats. L-380 is a trade and identification code used for loricariids that are kept under a provisional designation. It is not an official species name.

Geographical origin and biotope

This form originates in Brazil, in the Gurupi River basin of eastern Amazonia. Its habitat is associated with warm, well-oxygenated freshwater sections where rocks, submerged logs and crevices provide daytime shelter. Riparian vegetation contributes shade and organic matter to the system. In the aquarium, this origin means that the fish benefits from stable water, effective circulation and a solid layout, without sharp edges or unstable decorations that an adult could shift. Open swimming space should be combined with secure caves and shaded areas.

Precise location and local name

The geographical name associated with this form is the Gurupi River in Brazil. In the specialist trade, it is mainly identified as Pseudacanthicus sp. L-380 or by the English name Black Iron Cactus. The L-number belongs to the “L-number” system used to track loricariids imported before complete taxonomic identification or description. It is therefore not a formal species name. The most common aquarium vernacular name remains Black Iron Cactus.

Appearance and physical characteristics

The body of Pseudacanthicus sp. L-380 Gurupi is broad, low and heavily armored, with a massive head, an underslung mouth adapted to grazing and fins equipped with strong rays. Odontodes and bony plates emphasize the spiny appearance typical of cactus plecos. Its coloration is generally very dark, almost black, giving it a compact, mineral-like appearance. Adults may reach about 35 cm, requiring a large aquarium. Mature males may show more developed odontodes, although sexing is not always reliable in young specimens. A strong structure and ample bottom area are essential for long-term care.

General diet

Pseudacanthicus sp. L-380 Gurupi is an omnivorous, bottom-oriented fish that should be fed a varied diet, especially after the aquarium lights dim. Suitable foods include sinking catfish wafers, vegetable-based foods, blanched zucchini or other vegetables, and moderate portions of quality protein foods. Regular plant matter supports good condition, while natural wood can enrich the layout and encourage grazing behavior. Food should reach the bottom without being monopolized by tankmates; however, uneaten portions should be removed to protect water quality. Feeding should be adjusted to the fish’s growth, body condition and activity.

Essential data

• River of origin: Gurupi River
• Local name used: Black Iron Cactus
• Origin of the scientific name: Pseudacanthicus is a genus name; L-380 is an aquarium identification code.
• Etymology of the full name: Pseudacanthicus approximately means “false Acanthicus,” referring to a spiny appearance. Gurupi is the name of the native basin. L-380 is a trade number.
• Common/vernacular names: Black Iron Cactus, L-380 Gurupi
• Family: Loricariidae
• Subfamily: Ancistrinae
• Name pronunciation: soo-dak-an-THI-kus sp. el three eighty goo-roo-PEE
• Maximum adult size: About 35 cm
• Water temperature and pH: 25 to 29 °C; approximately pH 6.0 to 7.5
• Stream appearance and surrounding vegetation: Warm, well-oxygenated freshwater with rocks, submerged wood, shelter and riparian vegetation
• Typical tankmates: Large peaceful characins, non-aggressive South American cichlids, and other robust bottom fish of comparable size
• Temperament and behavior: Territorial toward other bottom-dwellers; mainly crepuscular and nocturnal
• Water depth:
• Sexual dimorphism: Adult males may develop more pronounced odontodes; young fish are difficult to sex
• Bottom structure and flow: Rocky or gravel substrate, numerous refuges and moderate to strong flow
• Collection status: Wild-collected fish; commercial rarity is very high.

In your aquarium

Success with Pseudacanthicus sp. L-380 Gurupi depends on a very spacious aquarium, oversized filtration and clean, warm, highly oxygenated water. Provide large enough caves, sturdy wood and visual barriers to reduce territorial disputes. Its diet should combine vegetables, sinking wafers and moderate amounts of quality protein foods. Because it is a very rare, wild-collected fish, every specimen deserves careful acclimation, strict quarantine and long-term planning rather than an impulsive purchase. Stable maintenance and a mature aquarium are especially valuable for this large, specialized pleco.