Pseudacanthicus pitanga L-024 Super Red

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The Pseudacanthicus pitanga L-024 Super Red, also known as Flame Cactus Tucuruí, is a large South American loricariid valued for its intense red coloration and powerful body shape. Associated with the aquarium code L-024, this fish comes from the Rio Tocantins basin in Brazil. Its armored body, odontodes, and mainly nocturnal behavior make it a striking resident for a spacious aquarium. This form is offered here as a wild-collected specimen and remains relatively uncommon in the hobby. It needs a well-oxygenated, stable setup arranged with rocks, wood, and hiding places suited to its adult size.

General species description

Pseudacanthicus pitanga L-024 Super Red is a large, robust, bottom-dwelling loricariid typical of flowing waters in the Amazon basin. It spends much of the day sheltered and becomes more active after the lights go out. Its body shape helps it hold onto rocky surfaces in current, while its ventral mouth is adapted for grazing and taking food from the bottom. In an aquarium, provide a large footprint, strong filtration, and several suitable refuges. The Super Red form is especially valued for its red-orange coloration, which is often more vivid than that of many standard L-024 fish.

Geographical origin and biotope

The species originates in Brazil, within the Rio Tocantins basin, particularly around the Tucuruí region. Its natural habitat consists of clear, well-oxygenated river sections with rocks, boulders, and hard surfaces used as shelters. Current may be strong locally, especially near rapids and rocky areas. Aquatic plants are generally less dominant than the mineral structure, although riparian vegetation may be abundant. In an aquarium, clean, warm water with strong circulation better reflects its environment than a heavily planted setup with limited water movement.

Precise location and local name

The aquarium name L-024 is associated with the Rio Tocantins around Tucuruí, in Pará, Brazil. The English name Flame Cactus Tucuruí refers directly to its red coloration and geographical origin. L-number designations are used by aquarists and the ornamental fish trade to identify loricariids whose taxonomic identity or commercial form is tracked by hobbyists. For this reason, the most useful local trade name remains Flame Cactus Tucuruí, together with the L-024 designation.

Appearance and physical characteristics

The body of Pseudacanthicus pitanga L-024 Super Red is broad, flattened underneath, and protected by bony plates. The fins are strongly developed, the head is massive, and the ventral mouth is adapted to contact with bottom surfaces. Small odontodes may become visible on the body and fins, especially in adults. Its most sought-after feature is a red to red-orange pattern, contrasting with darker areas on the body and fins. As with several cactus plecos, the spines and sturdy fin rays require careful handling, particularly when moving the fish with a net.

General feeding

Pseudacanthicus pitanga L-024 Super Red is an omnivore with a carnivorous tendency and does best with a varied diet placed directly on the bottom. Meals may include sinking, protein-rich wafers, chopped shrimp or mussel, and suitable frozen foods. Some vegetable matter is useful, but this fish should not be treated as a simple algae eater. Feed mainly in the evening, when its activity increases, and remove leftovers to protect water quality. Regular feeding supports growth and condition, while avoiding excess food helps limit organic pollution in the aquarium.

Essential data

• River of origin: Rio Tocantins
• Local name used: Flame Cactus Tucuruí
• Origin of the scientific name: Pseudacanthicus, a genus of loricariid catfish; pitanga, a Tupi-derived term associated with cherry and red coloration.
• Etymology of the full name: Pseudacanthicus means false Acanthicus; pitanga evokes a red fruit; L-024 is an aquarium code.
• Common/vernacular names: Flame Cactus Tucuruí; Super Red Cactus Pleco.
• Family: Loricariidae
• Subfamily: Ancistrinae
• Name pronunciation: soo-doh-ak-an-THI-kus pee-TAN-gah
• Maximum adult size: about 30 cm
• Water temperature and pH: 25 to 29 °C; approximately pH 6.0 to 7.5
• River appearance and surrounding vegetation: rocky, well-oxygenated flowing river; riparian vegetation present, with aquatic plants less dominant.
• Typical tankmates: Panaque armbrusteri L-027c, Cichla piquiti, Tocantinsia piresi
• Temperament and behavior: generally peaceful toward open-water fish; territorial toward other loricariids around shelters.
• Water depth: rocky bottom zones; depth variable.
• Sexual dimorphism: adult males generally develop more pronounced odontodes and a broader head.
• Bottom structure and flow: rock and boulder substrate with crevices; moderate to strong flow and high oxygenation.
• Availability status: relatively uncommon in the aquarium hobby; wild-collected specimen.

In your aquarium

To succeed with Pseudacanthicus pitanga L-024 Super Red, provide a large aquarium, a stable layout, and hiding places large enough for an adult. Very clean, well-oxygenated water, combined with genuine current, is essential. Feed after dark with a varied diet and monitor competition between loricariids. Because this is a wild fish, gradual acclimation and a thorough quarantine are especially advisable. Its relative scarcity also makes careful maintenance and responsible sourcing important for long-term success.