Acanthicus adonis – Loricariid Catfish – 5 to 7 cm

Acanthicus adonis: A Spectacular Large Loricariid Catfish

Acanthicus adonis is a large loricariid catfish native to South America.

Young specimens have a particularly striking dark body covered with numerous pale spots. This colouration changes as the fish grows and the spotting may become less prominent in larger individuals.

The specimens offered here measure approximately 5 to 7 cm, but it is essential to consider the considerable adult size of this species before purchasing.

Adult Size of Acanthicus adonis

Acanthicus adonis can reach approximately 80 cm as an adult.

It is therefore not a small bottom-dwelling fish suitable for a standard community aquarium. Its long-term growth and space requirements must be considered before purchase.

What Size Aquarium Does Acanthicus adonis Need?

Due to its adult size, Acanthicus adonis requires a very large aquarium.

For adult fish, we recommend an aquarium of around 1,000 litres with a length of approximately 200 cm, providing plenty of bottom area and shelters suited to the size of the fish.

Efficient filtration and good water quality are particularly important when keeping fish of this size.

Water Parameters

Temperature: 22 to 28 °C
pH: 7 to 8.5
KH: 5 to 15
Nitrite: 0 mg/L

As with all aquarium fish, nitrite should remain undetectable and stable water conditions are important.

Feeding Acanthicus adonis

Acanthicus adonis is an omnivorous fish.

In captivity, its diet can include suitable prepared foods such as pellets and flakes.

The quantity and size of the food should naturally be adjusted as the fish grows.

Behaviour and Care

Acanthicus adonis spends much of its time close to the bottom and uses its sucker-like mouth to hold onto different surfaces.

Tank mates should be selected carefully, particularly as the fish grows. Compatibility should take into account the adult size and behaviour of this large loricariid.

Breeding

Acanthicus adonis is an egg-laying fish. Breeding is associated with the use of cavities or caves.

Lifespan

Under suitable captive conditions, its lifespan can reach approximately 15 years.

Conservation and Responsible Ownership

Aquarium animals must never be released into the wild, in order to protect natural ecosystems and wildlife.

Before purchasing, owners should also check any regulations that may apply to the species in their country.

Key Facts About Acanthicus adonis

• scientific name: Acanthicus adonis;
• size offered: 5 to 7 cm;
• adult size can reach approximately 80 cm;
• requires a very large aquarium as an adult;
• around 1,000 litres and 200 cm tank length recommended for adult fish;
• temperature: 22 to 28 °C;
• pH: 7 to 8.5;
• omnivorous diet;
• lifespan can reach approximately 15 years.