Royal Pleco
Panaque nigrolineatus
Also known as: Royal Pleco, L027, L190
Origin: South America (Orinoco, Amazon)
Water Parameters
Quick Stats
- Max Size
- 43 cm
- Min Tank
- 350 L
- Lifespan
- 10-15
- Swimming Level
- bottom
- Schooling
- No
- Diet
- herbivore
- Temperament
- semi-aggressive toward conspecifics and similar large plecos
About
Panaque nigrolineatus is one of the most recognisable large plecos in the hobby, characterised by dark stripes on a cream background and a towering dorsal fin. Like all Panaque, it has specialised spoon-shaped teeth for rasping and digesting wood (xylophagy), making driftwood an essential dietary component rather than a decoration.
Care Guide
Water: 23–29°C, pH 6.0–7.5, soft to moderate; good filtration for heavy waste. Tank: Large driftwood for grazing and shelter; minimum 350L; robust decor. Feeding: Herbivore/xylophage; driftwood required; supplement with algae wafers, blanched vegetables. Behaviour: Nocturnal; can be territorial and aggressive toward other large plecos. Compatibility: Large cichlid and community tanks; incompatible with other Panaque in same space.
Buy Royal Pleco from FinsHQ shops
Shops currently listing this species with stock available
Sell Royal Pleco in your shop?
Join aquarium shops already using FinsHQ. Get a beautiful webshop, mobile app, and inventory management — built for aquatic retailers.
Start your free store