Spectracanthicus murinus was described in 1987, before the L-number system was created. For this reason, it never needed an L-number. The name murinus means “mouse grey” which is not really fitting for most individuals (the preserved holotype used for the description probably suggested otherwise). This is in fact a rather beautiful little pleco, dark grey covered in small white spots and with a striking white rim on the fins.
Facts:
Name: Spectracanthicus murinus (Nijssen & Isbrücker, 1987)
Trade names: Bicudo Pleco
Origin: Rio Tapajos, Brazil.
Maximum size: 12 cm / 5”
These fish must be kept in well filtered and clean aquariums with lots of hiding places. They need warm and soft water. They are peaceful towards other fish, but the males can be somewhat territorial towards each other. S.murinus is an omnivore with preference for meaty foods, and should be fed a varied diet consisting of crustaceans, shrimps, fish meat, Spirulina tablets and quality dry foods. Although few breeding reports exist, they breed in typical Loricariidae fashion under the right circumstances. Males can be recognized by their heavy odontodal growth and broader head, whereas ripe females will show off a fuller belly, especially when viewed from above.
Unfortunately, since it was first imported to Germany in 1998 S.murinus has remained a rariety in our hobby. The fact that it doesn’t have an L-number is also affecting how easy it is to market, bizarrely enough. It’s distribution in the Rio Tapajos lies within the range where many L-numbers are collected, and it’s also allowed for export from Brazil.
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