Common Name: Black Pinecone Pleco
Scientific Name: Pseudorinelepis genibarbis
Other Names: Pinecone Pleco, Pseudorinelepis Pleco
The Black Pinecone Pleco is a striking freshwater fish known for its unique, heavily armored body and dark coloration. Its body is covered in large, overlapping bony plates that resemble the scales of a pinecone, giving it a distinctive and rugged appearance. This pleco is highly valued for its unique look and hardy nature.
Habitat and Distribution:
The Black Pinecone Pleco is native to the river basins of South America, particularly the Amazon and Orinoco River Basins in Brazil, Peru, and Colombia. These fish are typically found in slow-moving rivers and floodplains with sandy or muddy substrates. The natural habitat often includes areas with plenty of submerged wood and plant debris, providing ample hiding spots and grazing surfaces.
Size and Lifespan:
In both the wild and captivity, Black Pinecone Plecos can grow up to 12-14 inches (30-35 cm) in length. With proper care, their lifespan can range from 10 to 15 years, depending on the quality of their diet and water conditions.
Diet and Behavior:
Black Pinecone Plecos are omnivorous, feeding on a mix of algae, detritus, plant matter, and small invertebrates 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 occasional protein-rich foods like bloodworms and brine shrimp. These plecos are generally peaceful and can be kept with other non-aggressive fish, making them suitable for community tanks. They are mostly nocturnal and will be more active during the night.
Breeding and Reproduction:
Breeding Black Pinecone Plecos in captivity is challenging but possible. They are egg layers and typically spawn in secluded areas such as caves or under pieces of driftwood. The male guards the eggs until they hatch. To encourage breeding, provide plenty of hiding spots and caves, maintain optimal water conditions with regular water changes, and feed a varied diet. Successful breeding usually requires a well-maintained tank with specific water parameters.
Aquarium Care and Tank Requirements:
Due to their size and specific needs, Black Pinecone Plecos require a medium to large aquarium, with a minimum of 75-100 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 maintaining water quality. 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:
Black Pinecone Plecos are peaceful and can be kept with other non-aggressive fish that share similar water parameter requirements. Suitable tank mates include tetras, rasboras, dwarf cichlids, and other small to medium-sized catfish. Avoid housing them with large, aggressive species that may cause stress or injury.
Difficulty Level:
Intermediate. While Black Pinecone Plecos are hardy and adaptable, they require specific tank conditions and diet to thrive, making them suitable for aquarists with some experience.
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)
