L190 Royal Pleco (Panaque nigrolineatus)

L190 Royal Pleco (Panaque nigrolineatus)

Overview

The L190 Royal Pleco is a highly sought-after species, prized for its impressive size and striking patterns. Native to the Rio Orinoco in Colombia and Venezuela, this species thrives in fast-flowing, oxygen-rich waters and is well-suited for larger aquariums. Its bold appearance and distinct head shape make it a standout in any tank.

Size & Ideal Tank Conditions

• Adult Size: 16 - 18 inches (40.6 - 45.7 cm)
• Minimum Tank Size: 120+ gallons for a full-grown adult
• Temperature: 71 - 86°F (22 - 30°C)
• pH Range: 5.5 - 7.5
• Water Hardness: 0 - 30 dKH
• Tank Setup: Strong filtration, high oxygenation, driftwood, and plenty of hiding spots

Temperament & Tankmates

The Royal Pleco is generally peaceful but can be territorial, especially towards other bottom-dwelling plecos. It can coexist with a variety of tankmates, including:

• Community fish
• Semi-aggressive cichlids
• Other large, non-aggressive species

Providing enough space and hiding spots will help reduce territorial disputes.

Diet & Feeding

The L190 Royal Pleco is a wood-eating species, meaning it requires driftwood in its diet. It primarily grazes on wood fibers, but benefits from occasional vegetable supplementation, such as:

• Cucumber, zucchini, bell peppers, and peas
• High-quality algae wafers or sinking herbivore pellets

A strong filtration system is necessary, as this species produces a large amount of waste due to its diet.

Activity & Behavior

Royal Plecos are primarily nocturnal, but once settled into their environment, they may become more active during the day. They prefer tanks with plenty of driftwood, rockwork, and shaded areas where they can retreat when needed.

Why Choose the L190 Royal Pleco?

• Hardy and adaptable for large aquariums
• Striking appearance with unique patterns
• Can thrive on a driftwood-based diet
• Peaceful with most tankmates when given enough space

The L190 Royal Pleco is a fascinating addition to any large aquarium, providing both visual appeal and beneficial scavenging behavior. With the right setup and diet, this species can thrive for many years.