Acanthicus adonis

The Adonis Pleco, also known as the Polka Dot Lyretail Pleco, is a truly impressive but demanding fish. Its most striking feature, especially when young, is its jet-black body covered in bright white spots. As it grows, these spots tend to fade, and its tail develops into a beautiful, flowing lyre shape. This is not a fish for the average home aquarium. It grows to an enormous size, often reaching over two feet long, and therefore requires a 'monster tank' of at least 1000 liters. Due to its large size, it produces a significant amount of waste, which necessitates extremely powerful filtration and strong water movement to keep the water clean and well-oxygenated. The Adonis Pleco is a territorial bottom-dweller. It will claim a preferred spot in the aquarium, often a cave or overhang, and defend it aggressively, especially from other bottom-dwelling fish. It should be kept with other large, robust fish that occupy the middle and upper parts of the tank. While it is an omnivore and will eat a variety of foods, including sinking pellets and vegetables, it is known to uproot and eat most aquatic plants. This is a long-term commitment, as it can live for over 15 years, and its care is considered difficult, suitable only for very experienced aquarists with the resources to house such a giant.