Pleco-Royal Panaque- L191 (50-70mm)

All our fish, shrimp and corals are bagged with fresh oxygen as well as a heat pack in winter.

When ordering livestock please select the box size and add it to your cart for accurate overnight (1-2 days) shipping costs. A small box can take 1-2 bags and a medium box 6 bags. One bag fits max 10 small (1-3cm) fish or max 2 medium (3-5cm) fish or max 1 large (>5cm) fish.

ONE SPECIES PER BAG. Eg: One bag of 10 neon tetra

Royal Panaque (Panaque nigrolineatus)

Description:

• Appearance:

  • Size: Typically grows to about 12-15 inches (30-38 cm) in length.
  • Color: Dark body with distinctive vertical white or cream stripes or spots, which give it a royal and striking appearance.
  • Body Shape: Robust and elongated with a flattened head and wide, muscular body. The fins are broad and also display the characteristic striping.

• Behavior:

  • Activity Level: Generally nocturnal; most active during the evening and night.
  • Social Behavior: Peaceful and non-aggressive, but can be territorial, especially around hiding spots or during feeding.

Care Requirements:

• Tank Size:

  • Minimum: 75 gallons (284 liters). Larger tanks are preferable due to their size and territorial nature.

• Tank Setup:

  • Substrate: Soft, sandy substrate is recommended to avoid damaging their delicate undersides.
  • Decorations: Provide plenty of hiding spots using driftwood, rocks, and caves. The fish enjoy having places to hide and feel secure.
  • Plants: Hardy plants can be included, but make sure they are securely anchored. The fish may occasionally disturb them.

• Water Parameters:

  • Temperature: 74-80°F (23-27°C). Keep the temperature stable within this range.
  • pH: 6.0-7.5. Slightly acidic to neutral water is ideal.
  • Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water.
  • Filtration: Strong filtration is necessary to maintain water quality, but avoid strong currents. Use a sponge filter if necessary to ensure gentle water movement.

• Diet:

  • Primary Food: Primarily herbivorous. Feed a diet rich in vegetable matter like algae wafers, spirulina pellets, and blanched vegetables (e.g., zucchini, cucumber).
  • Supplemental Food: Offer occasional protein-rich foods such as bloodworms or brine shrimp, particularly for juveniles or during periods of rapid growth.

• Behavioral Considerations:

  • Compatibility: Peaceful with other non-aggressive fish. Suitable tank mates include other peaceful community fish like tetras, rasboras, and smaller cichlids.
  • Tank Mates: Avoid aggressive or fin-nipping species. They can be territorial, so provide ample hiding places and avoid overcrowding.

• Tank Maintenance:

  • Water Changes: Regular water changes of 25-30% weekly to ensure high water quality and reduce waste.
  • Cleaning: Keep the tank clean and monitor the filter to ensure it is working effectively.

• Health Care:

  • Observation: Regularly check for signs of illness or stress such as changes in behavior, loss of appetite, or skin abnormalities.
  • Treatment: Maintain good water quality to prevent diseases. Consult an aquarium specialist if any health issues arise.

• Additional Notes:

  • Lifespan: Typically 10-15 years with proper care.
  • Breeding: Breeding in captivity is rare and requires specific conditions. Provide a suitable environment with hiding spots and maintain optimal water conditions if breeding is attempted.