Common Name: Albino Adonis Pleco
Scientific Name: Acanthicus adonis
Other Names: Albino Adonis Catfish, Albino L155 Pleco
The Albino Adonis Pleco is a stunning and rare variant of the Adonis Pleco, known for its striking albino coloration and distinctive long, flowing pectoral and dorsal fins. This species is admired for its unique appearance and large size, making it a standout addition to any large aquarium.
Habitat and Distribution:
The natural form of the Adonis Pleco is native to the Amazon and Tocantins River basins in South America, where it inhabits fast-flowing rivers with rocky substrates. These areas provide plenty of hiding spots and grazing grounds for this species. The Albino variant is bred in captivity and does not occur in the wild.
Size and Lifespan:
In both the wild and captivity, Albino Adonis Plecos can grow up to 24-36 inches (60-90 cm) in length, though they may grow slightly smaller in aquariums. 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:
Albino Adonis Plecos are omnivorous, feeding on algae, plant matter, and small invertebrates in their natural environment. In an aquarium, their diet should include high-quality sinking pellets, algae wafers, fresh vegetables like zucchini, cucumber, and spinach, and occasional protein-rich foods such as shrimp and bloodworms. These plecos are territorial and can be aggressive toward other bottom dwellers, particularly as they mature. They are nocturnal, becoming more active during the night while spending much of the day hiding.
Breeding and Reproduction:
Breeding Albino Adonis Plecos in captivity is extremely difficult due to their size and specific environmental requirements. In the wild, they are known to breed in large river systems where they seek out secluded areas for spawning. There is limited documentation of successful breeding in home aquariums. Large, well-maintained tanks with caves and other hiding spots are essential to encourage natural breeding behaviors.
Aquarium Care and Tank Requirements:
Due to their large size, Albino Adonis Plecos require a very large aquarium, with a minimum of 300 gallons recommended for adult specimens. The tank should have a soft, sandy substrate to prevent injury to their delicate barbels, and it should be equipped with strong filtration to handle their heavy bioload. Rocks, driftwood, and plenty of caves should be included to mimic their natural habitat and provide hiding spots. Strong water flow and frequent 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 6.0-7.5 and soft to moderately hard water.
Ideal Tank Mates:
Albino Adonis Plecos are best kept with other large, robust fish that can tolerate their territorial behavior. Suitable tank mates include large cichlids, large catfish, and other similarly sized species. Avoid housing them with small or delicate fish that may be intimidated or injured by the pleco’s size and behavior.
Difficulty Level:
Advanced. Albino Adonis Plecos require a deep understanding of their needs, including their large size, territorial behavior, and specific water quality requirements. They are best suited for experienced aquarists with the space and resources to provide proper care.
Water Parameters:
• Temperature: 75-82°F (24-28°C)
• pH: 6.0-7.5
• General Hardness (GH): 4-15 dGH
• Carbonate Hardness (KH): 2-8 dKH
• Ammonia: 0 ppm (ideal)
• Nitrite: 0 ppm (ideal)
• Nitrate: <20 ppm (ideal)
Additional Information:
• The Albino Adonis Pleco’s distinctive albino coloration, large size, and flowing fins make it a highly sought-after species for aquarists with large tanks.
• They are known for their territorial nature, particularly toward other bottom-dwelling fish, so adequate space and proper tank mates are essential.
• Fun fact: Juvenile Albino Adonis Plecos are covered in small white spots that tend to fade as they mature, leaving behind a more uniform pale coloration.
