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Pseudolithoxus anthrax L-235 is a small South American loricariid from Venezuela, known in the aquarium trade as the Flat Flyer Cat. Its very flattened body and habit of holding onto rocky surfaces reflect a remarkable adaptation to flowing water. Associated with the Rio Aro and the Orinoco basin, this fish remains uncommon in the aquarium hobby. It is especially sought after by keepers of wild plecos for its unusual shape, discreet behavior, and requirements for clean, well-oxygenated water with steady movement. The specimen offered is wild collected.

General species description

Pseudolithoxus anthrax L-235 belongs to the loricariids, a group of South American catfish with sucker mouths. It is specialized for life on rocks in flowing streams, where its flattened body reduces resistance against the current. In aquaria, it is usually discreet, especially during daylight, and becomes more active as the light fades. This species does best in a mature aquarium with plenty of mineral surfaces, hiding places, and strong water circulation. Its availability remains moderate to low, making it a sought-after fish among specialist aquarists.

Geographic origin and biotope

This species comes from Venezuela, in the Orinoco basin, particularly the Rio Aro. It inhabits rocky areas with regular to strong flow, clear water, and high oxygen levels. The bottom is dominated by stones, rounded rocks, and coarse gravel, while aquatic vegetation is generally less important than the mineral structure. To recreate this habitat, use efficient filtration, strong circulation, and stable water conditions without organic waste accumulation.

Precise locality and local name

The reference locality is the Rio Aro, a Venezuelan watercourse connected to the Orinoco drainage. In the aquarium trade, Pseudolithoxus anthrax L-235 is mainly identified by the English name Flat Flyer Cat. The L-235 code belongs to the numbering system used by aquarists to identify several loricariids before or alongside their scientific names. This label remains useful for quickly distinguishing the form commonly encountered in the hobby.

Appearance and physical characteristics

The most striking feature of Pseudolithoxus anthrax L-235 is its extremely flattened body, suited to life pressed against rocks. The head is broad, the ventral mouth is modified into a sucker, and the pectoral and pelvic fins help it remain attached in moving water. Overall coloration is dark, ranging from charcoal to blackish tones, matching the species name. The fins may show paler contrasts depending on age, origin, and condition. Its bony plates and fin spines require careful handling.

General diet

In the wild, Pseudolithoxus anthrax L-235 likely grazes on biofilm, fine algae, and microorganisms growing on submerged surfaces, while also consuming plant material and organic matter. In an aquarium, its diet should include quality loricariid wafers, vegetable tablets, and blanched vegetables such as zucchini. Some protein-based foods may be offered occasionally, but they should not dominate the diet. A mature aquarium with well-colonized surfaces supports natural feeding and reduces competition with other bottom-dwelling fish.

Essential data

• Name of source river: Rio Aro
• Local name used: Flat Flyer Cat
• Origin of the scientific name: Pseudolithoxus is formed from pseudo and Greek roots associated with stone and a pointed appearance; anthrax refers to a dark or coal-like coloration.
• Etymology of the full name: Pseudolithoxus roughly means false stone fish, while anthrax means coal or coal-black.
• Common or vernacular names: Flat Flyer Cat; L-235
• Family: Loricariidae
• Subfamily: Hypostominae
• Name pronunciation: soo doh lith ock soos an thraks
• Discovery: Described by Isaäc J. H. Isbrücker and Han Nijssen in 1989
• Maximum adult size: approximately 10 cm
• Water temperature and pH: 24 to 28 °C; pH approximately 6.0 to 7.5
• Stream appearance and surrounding vegetation: clear, highly oxygenated water, steady current, rocky substrate, and tropical riparian vegetation
• Typical tankmates: Pseudolithoxus kelsorum L-189; Pseudolithoxus tigris L-257
• Temperament and behavior: peaceful, discreet, mainly bottom-dwelling, and more active at dusk or in dim light
• Water depth: shallow to moderately deep sections
• Sexual dimorphism: limited in young fish; adults may show differences in head width and odontode development
• Bottom structure and flow: rocks, rounded stones, and coarse gravel; moderate to strong current

For greater success

Success with Pseudolithoxus anthrax L-235 depends on a mature aquarium, very clean, well-oxygenated water, and steady current. Provide flat rocks, retreats, and regular vegetable foods rather than relying only on naturally occurring algae. Since this is a relatively uncommon wild fish, acclimate it gradually and observe it carefully during the first weeks. Avoid aggressive tankmates and excessive temperatures. High-quality water, oversized filtration, and food offered after the lights go out will help this specialized pleco settle and thrive over time.