Common Name: Pineapple Pleco
Scientific Name: Pseudorinelepis genibarbis
Other Names: L152, Barred Pleco, Giant Rubber Pleco
The Pineapple Pleco is a large and distinctive freshwater fish known for its unique appearance. It has a robust, elongated body covered with bony plates and a striking pattern of light and dark bands, giving it a somewhat "pineapple-like" texture. The head is broad with long, bushy barbels around the mouth, which it uses to forage for food. This pleco is both visually striking and functional, making it a popular choice for larger aquariums.
Habitat and Distribution:
The Pineapple Pleco is native to the Amazon River Basin, particularly found in Brazil. They inhabit slow-moving rivers, floodplains, and areas with soft, muddy substrates. These environments are rich in detritus and plant matter, providing ample food sources for the Pineapple Pleco.
Size and Lifespan:
In the wild and in captivity, Pineapple Plecos can grow up to 18 inches (45 cm) or more. Their lifespan can range from 10 to 15 years with proper care, including a suitable diet and clean water conditions.
Diet and Behavior:
Pineapple Plecos are primarily herbivorous, feeding on algae, biofilm, and plant matter in their natural habitat. In an aquarium, their diet should include high-quality sinking algae wafers, spirulina tablets, and fresh vegetables such as zucchini, cucumber, and spinach. They may also consume some protein-rich foods like bloodworms and brine shrimp occasionally. These plecos are mostly nocturnal and are more active during the night. They are peaceful and can coexist with other non-aggressive fish, making them suitable for community tanks, especially larger ones.
Breeding and Reproduction:
Breeding Pineapple Plecos in captivity is challenging and rarely achieved due to their size and specific environmental needs. Little is documented about their breeding habits in the wild. They are likely to spawn in specific conditions that are difficult to replicate in an aquarium setting. Successful breeding typically requires very large, well-maintained tanks with optimal water conditions and plenty of hiding spots.
Aquarium Care and Tank Requirements:
Due to their large size and active nature, Pineapple Plecos require a very large aquarium, with a minimum of 150-200 gallons recommended for adult specimens. The tank should have a soft, sandy or fine gravel substrate to prevent injury to their delicate barbels. Include plenty of hiding spots created with rocks, driftwood, and caves to mimic their natural habitat and reduce stress. Efficient filtration and regular water changes are essential to maintain water quality, as these fish produce a significant amount of waste. The water temperature should be kept between 75-82°F (24-28°C), with a pH of 6.5-7.5 and soft to moderately hard water.
Ideal Tank Mates:
Pineapple Plecos can be kept with other large, peaceful fish that share similar water parameter requirements. Suitable tank mates include large tetras, peaceful cichlids, and other large catfish. Avoid housing them with small or delicate species that may become targets of predation or bullying.
Difficulty Level:
Advanced. Keeping Pineapple Plecos requires a deep understanding of their needs, including their large size, nocturnal behavior, and specific water quality requirements. They are best suited for experienced aquarists with the space and resources to provide proper care.
Water Parameters:
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Temperature: 75-82°F (24-28°C)
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pH: 6.5-7.5
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General Hardness (GH): 5-15 dGH
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Carbonate Hardness (KH): 4-10 dKH
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Ammonia: 0 ppm (ideal)
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Nitrite: 0 ppm (ideal)
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Nitrate: <20 ppm (ideal)
Additional Information:
- The Pineapple Pleco’s unique appearance and large size make it a striking addition to any large aquarium.
- They are known for their peaceful nature and ability to coexist with a variety of tank mates, provided they are not too small.
- Fun fact: Pineapple Plecos have a powerful sucking mouth that allows them to cling to surfaces even in strong currents, and they use this adaptation to graze on algae and detritus.
