Loricariidaefreshwater fishintermediate

Papa Bear Pleco

Panaque sp.

Also known as: Papa Bear Pleco, Papa Panaque

Origin: South America

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Water Parameters

Temperature2329 °C
15 °C35 °C
pH67.5
49
GH (Hardness)212 °dGH
0 °dGH30 °dGH
KH (Alkalinity)16 °dKH
0 °dKH20 °dKH

Quick Stats

Max Size
35 cm
Min Tank
300 L
Lifespan
10-15
Swimming Level
bottom
Schooling
No
Diet
herbivore
Temperament
semi-aggressive toward similar large plecos

About

Panaque sp. Papa Bear is a robust and heavily built loricariid from South American river systems, closely related to the Royal Pleco. It shares the genus' requirement for driftwood as a dietary staple and grows to an impressive size. Its dark, mottled body and large size make it a dominant presence in large display aquariums.

Care Guide

Water: 23–29°C, pH 6.0–7.5, soft to moderate hardness. Tank: Very large driftwood pieces for rasping; minimum 300L; robust aquascape. Feeding: Herbivore/xylophage; driftwood essential; algae wafers, blanched vegetables. Behaviour: Nocturnal; territorial toward other large Panaque; produces significant waste. Compatibility: Large aquarium with robust, large fish; not suitable with small or delicate species.

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