Slate Pleco – Pseudancistrus genisetiger | Rare Wild Caught with Slate Coloration

The Slate Pleco (Pseudancistrus genisetiger) is an exceptionally beautiful, rare wild-caught specimen from northern Brazil. Its deep grey to slate blue body color and contrasting, light spots give it a noble, understated appearance that fits perfectly into naturalistic aquariums.

Typical for Pseudancistrus genisetiger are the distinctive, bristle-like barbels on the cheeks of adult males – an unmistakable characteristic of this genus. The Slate Pleco remains manageable with a final size of about 12–14 cm and exhibits calm, peaceful behavior, making it an ideal aquarium inhabitant.

🌿 Characteristics & Care:
🐠 Fish size: M (5–6 cm)
🌎 Origin: Brazil (Rio Trombetas, northern Amazon) – Wild-caught
🌡️ Temperature: 25–30 °C
💧 pH value: 6.0–7.5
⚖️ Total hardness: up to 18 °dGH
🐟 Social behavior: Peaceful, slightly territorial towards conspecifics
🌾 Aquarium: From 120 l, with roots, stones, caves & moderate current

🍽️ Feeding:
The Pseudancistrus genisetiger is an omnivore with a focus on protein-rich food. It eats frozen and live food such as Artemia, Mysis, Cyclops, and Krill, but also accepts protein tabs, granules, and plant-based foods like spirulina, algae wafers, and vegetable chips.

💡 Tip:
An oxygen-rich aquarium with current, dark substrate, and sufficient hiding places particularly enhances its slate grey coloration. Regular water changes promote vitality and color contrast.

👉 Conclusion:
The Slate Pleco (Pseudancistrus genisetiger) is a rare, peaceful wild-caught specimen with elegant slate coloration – perfect for enthusiasts of unusual Pseudancistrus species and naturalistic South American aquariums.