L-155 Adonis Pleco

L-155 Adonis Pleco

The L-155 Adonis Pleco (Acanthicus adonis), also commonly known as the Polka Dot Lyretail Pleco or Adonis Catfish, is wild caught in Peru.  AquariumFish.com imports what the fishermen catch, so size can vary from a body size of 3 to 6 inches. The size does not include the long streaming tail fin which is the hallmark of Adonis Plecos. 

Native to the lower Tocantins River and lower Amazon basin in Brazil, the Adonis Pleco is a true mega-catfish, capable of reaching an incredible adult size of 24 to 36+ inches (60-90+ cm) in full-sized setups. Juvenile coloration gradually fades into a slate-black or dark charcoal tone as an adult, though their massive lyretail and impressive armor-plated presence remain breathtaking. Due to their immense final size, heavy bioload, and powerful movements, a minimum aquarium size of 150 to 200 gallons is needed for juveniles, while fully grown adults require massive custom systems of 300 to 500+ gallons with heavy-duty filtration.

The L-155 Adonis Pleco is a robust, hardy species that commands attention in large-format monster fish displays. While juveniles are manageable and peaceful, adults become dominant, highly territorial bottom dwellers that require substantial swimming space, sturdy rock structures, and heavy, secure driftwood.

Diet & Compatibility:

• Diet: This species is an Opportunistic Omnivore with Carnivorous Tendencies. Unlike typical algae-grazing plecos, the Adonis Pleco thrives on a heavy diet of protein-rich sinking carnivore pellets, wafers, earthworms, shrimp, squid, and fish fillets, supplemented with spirulina and fresh vegetables like zucchini and squash. Juveniles will eat some algae, but adults require substantial, high-protein rations.
• Filtration & Setup: Due to their high metabolic rate and bioload, high-turnover filtration systems (sumps, heavy canisters) and regular water changes are mandatory. Provide large rock caves, heavy driftwood, and open floor space with smooth substrate.
• Reef / Plant Compatibility: It is Not Plant Safe. Adults possess extreme physical power and will easily uproot, crush, or shred aquatic plants while moving around or redecorating the substrate.
• Temperament: It ranges from Peaceful as Juveniles to Highly Aggressive / Territorial as Adults. Mature specimens are extremely territorial toward other bottom dwellers, plecos, and similar armor-plated catfish. They will aggressively defend their preferred territory against any intruder.
• Tankmates: Juveniles can be kept in medium community setups, but adults must be housed with large, robust midwater or surface species such as large South/Central American Cichlids, Peacock Bass, Arowanas, Pacus, Large Characins, and Silver Dollars. Avoid housing with other plecos or delicate, slow-moving bottom dwellers.

Quick Facts

• Scientific Name: Acanthicus adonis
• Primary Common Name: L-155 Adonis Pleco
• Other Common Names: Polka Dot Lyretail Pleco, Adonis Catfish, L155 Pleco
• Origin: South America (Tocantins River Basin, Brazil)
• Max Size: 24-36+ inches (60-90+ cm)
• Temperament: Peaceful as Juveniles; Highly Territorial / Aggressive as Adults
• Diet: Omnivore / Carnivore (Requires high-protein sinking foods and pellets)
• Minimum Tank Size: 300+ Gallons for adults (150+ Gallons for juveniles)
• Plant Compatibility: Not Plant Safe (Will uproot and crush plants)
• Shipping Size: Varies from 1 to 6 inches