Royal Pleco
Updated August 6, 2019
Author: Mike - FishLore Admin
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The Royal Panaque Catfish (Panaque nigrolineatus) is also commonly called the Royal Pleco. They get big, up to about 17 inches (43 cm) and need a larger tank for long term success.
This pleco is a driftwood eating species that will also appreciate vegetables like zuchini, cucumber and peas. They Royal Pleco will do well with most other species but may fight with other pleco species.
Royal Pleco Care
Scientific Name : Panaque nigrolineatus
Common Names : Royal Pleco
Size : Up to 17 inches (43 cm)
Water Parameters : This pleco doese well with these water parameters - pH 6.6 - 7.5 | Temperature : 71°F - 79°F (22°C - 26°C) | Water Hardness : 5° to 15° dH
Lifespan : 10 years plus
Origin / Habitat : South America, Amazon tributaries and Orinoco River basins
Temperament / Behavior : They can be somewhat territorial
Breeding : No info on breeding yet.
Aquarium Size : 120 gallons (210 liters) or larger given their potential adult size.
Mates : Should do ok with other non-catfish species. May become territorial and aggressive with other catfish species.
Fish Disease : Freshwater Fish Disease
Diet / Foods : They will eat wood (bog wood or driftwood) and vegetables (zuchini, cucumber, peas etc). Sinking algae wafers or pleco targeted pellets.
Tank Region : Bottom
Gender : Very difficult using external characteristics
Photo Credit : Neale Monks
References : Fishbase - Loricariidae (Armored catfishes) - Ancistrinae - Panaque nigrolineatus
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