Titanic Panaque (Panaque bathyphilus)

The Titanic Panaque is one of the largest wood-eating loricariids, a massively built pleco from deeper river channels of the Amazon drainage capable of reaching 50 cm in captivity. Like all Panaque species, it possesses unique spoon-shaped teeth for rasping cellulose from driftwood and requires large quantities of driftwood for both dietary and behavioral enrichment. Its imposing size, bold striped pattern, and fascinating ligninolytic feeding biology make it a true centerpiece animal for specialists.

Provide at least 600 L with extensive large driftwood as the primary dietary and behavioral element — supply multiple large pieces and replace regularly as they are consumed. Supplement with fresh vegetables (zucchini, cucumber, spinach), algae wafers, and high-fiber sinking foods. Strong filtration is essential as wood-eaters produce significant waste. Sandy substrate preferred. Provide large hiding areas. Can be territorial with other large plecos.