🐟 L273 Titanicus Pleco (Pseudacanthicus sp.)

🌍 Origin & Classification

🔬 Scientific Name: Pseudacanthicus sp. (L‑273)
🐠 Common Names: Titanicus Pleco, L273
🗺️ Habitat: Rio Tapajós, Pará, Brazil (Lower Amazon Basin)

📏 Size & Appearance

📐 Max Size: Typically grows to ~12" (30 cm); rare specimens may reach 16" (40 cm)
🎨 Coloration: Olive green to dark with black spotting and patches of yellow, orange, gold, or salmon-red
🛡️ Features: Covered in thick armor and sharp odontodes (spikes)

🧠 Behavior & Temperament

😎 Personality: Generally peaceful but territorial—even at a young age
⚔️ Tankmate Caution: May become aggressive toward other large or nocturnal fish
🌒 Activity: Nocturnal—prefers low light and hides during the day

🏠 Tank Requirements

🪨 Environment: Needs caves, driftwood, and a soft sandy or fine gravel substrate
💡 Lighting: Low/dim lighting recommended
🚰 Tank Size: Minimum 6 ft (180–200 cm) for adults

🌡️ Water Parameters

🌡️ Temperature: 73–82°F (23–28°C); can tolerate slightly warmer temps short-term
⚖️ pH Range: 6.0–7.0 (slightly acidic)
💧 Quality: Must have clean, oxygen-rich, well-filtered water
🚿 Water Changes: Regular and frequent

🍽️ Diet

🥩 Feeding Type: Carnivorous
✅ Preferred Foods: Prawns, mussels, earthworms, insect larvae
🥦 Optional: Some veggie-based foods for balance

🧬 Sexual Dimorphism

♂️ Males: Bulkier with wider heads and longer odontodes (snout & pectorals)
♀️ Females: Sleeker with narrower heads and less pronounced ornamentation

📋 Quick Reference Table

🧾 Trait	📝 Details
🌍 Origin	Rio Tapajós, Brazil
📏 Max Size	~12", up to 16" (30–40 cm)
💡 Behavior	Peaceful but territorial, nocturnal
🏠 Tank Size	180–200 cm (6 ft) minimum
🪨 Habitat Setup	Caves, wood, sand/gravel, dim lighting
🌡️ Water Temp	73–82°F (23–28°C)
⚖️ pH Range	6.0–7.0
💧 Water Needs	Clean, well-filtered, oxygen-rich
🍤 Diet	Carnivorous, occasional plant matter
♀️♂️ Sexing	Males are more robust with stronger features

📌 Note: The L273 Titanicus is one of the most stunning Pseudacanthicus species available in the hobby. It requires experienced care due to its territorial nature and size, but it makes an impressive centerpiece for large aquariums.

📧 Have Questions?
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