Royal Pleco L010b

Panaque nigrolineatus L010b represents a darker collection variant of the Royal Pleco complex from Venezuelan Orinoco tributaries. Compared to L010a, it displays deeper, more saturated dark banding and a more vivid red iris, making it highly attractive to collectors who want maximum contrast in this majestic species. Like all Panaque nigrolineatus forms, it is a dedicated wood-rasper with a robust, powerful body.

Housing requirements match those of L010a: a large aquarium of 300 L or more, heavy driftwood provision for rasping, and powerful filtration to handle the considerable waste generated. It should not be kept with soft-leaved plants, which it will destroy. Its temperament is similar — territorial toward other large plecos but peaceful with unrelated tankmates.

The L010b variant is somewhat less common in the hobby than L010a, reflecting its more restricted collection localities. It commands a slight price premium and is highly valued by Panaque enthusiasts.

Water: 23–28°C, pH 6.0–7.5, soft to moderately hard; high-capacity filtration essential for wood waste. Tank: Minimum 300 L; abundant large driftwood, slate caves, no soft plants. Feeding: Wood rasper; provide sinking wafers, Repashy, blanched vegetables; occasional meaty supplement. Breeding: Cave spawner; extremely rare in captivity; very large established tanks with stable water required. Compatibility: Territorial toward conspecifics and similar-sized plecos; peaceful with unrelated species.