Royal Plecostomus L190 - Panaque nigrolineatus : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide

Introduction

The Royal Pleco (Panaque nigrolineatus) holds significant value as an aquarium fish due to its captivating appearance and substantial size. Typically, these Plecos remain concealed during the day and exhibit shyness under bright lighting conditions. Given their territorial nature, providing suitable resting places within the tank is essential. Adding other fish species not only enhances the visual appeal of the aquarium but also increases overall movement, as Royal Plecos tend to have a relatively low level of daytime activity.

When selecting tankmates for Plecos, careful consideration should be given to how well they complement each other. Choosing species that inhabit different levels within the water column is advisable. Instead of opting for fish that primarily reside near the substrate, focus on selecting active species that occupy the upper regions of the tank, as Plecos spend the majority of their time on the substrate or attached to driftwood. Including species that exhibit higher activity levels rather than those prone to excessive hiding is preferable. Additionally, it is important to avoid fish species that have a tendency to nip at fins. Certain brightly lit, heavily planted tank environments may not be suitable for Plecos, as they have specific dietary and behavioural requirements. Tetras, Silver Dollars, various Headstanders, and select Cichlid species are considered ideal tankmates for Royal Plecos.

These Plecos naturally graze on any available wood within the aquarium, making driftwood a vital component of their aquascape. The presence of ample driftwood not only caters to their dietary needs but also provides aesthetically pleasing features for aquarists. Royal Plecos are frequently observed occupying or taking shelter under driftwood structures. However, caution must be exercised to prevent the creation of dead zones within the tank where water flow is limited or absent, as excessive accumulation of waste can occur. To mitigate this, an efficient power filtration system with a high flow rate is recommended. Strategic placement of powerheads within the filtration system helps maintain water movement, preventing the buildup of waste and detritus, which can be subsequently removed by the power filters.

In order to accommodate the natural behaviour of these Plecos, it is advisable to incorporate hiding spots within the aquarium setup, resembling areas where fallen trees collect in a river. Clay caves are not necessary for Royal Plecos, as they rarely utilize open-ended caves like other Pleco species. However, it should be noted that Royal Plecos have a tendency to cause damage to plant leaves, making it advisable to avoid including live plants in the tank. Similarly, artificial plants should be avoided, as ingesting plastic or silk pieces can lead to intestinal blockages. Utilizing lower lighting levels without plants can create a more comfortable environment for Plecos, promoting increased activity and enhancing the viewing experience for enthusiasts.

Maintaining the health of these fish necessitates regular partial water changes, with weekly changes of approximately 25%, along with vacuuming the substrate and siphoning out any debris that may be attached to the wood.

The Royal Pleco exhibits a light grey colouration with dark grey zigzag patterns. Cream or gold accents can be observed along the edges of their dorsal fins, while their eyes display a distinctive red hue. The body of the Royal Pleco is covered in robust armour consisting of sturdy skin plates rather than scales. This heavy and rigid body structure limits their swimming abilities, but their sucker-like mouths enable them to cling to rocks and wood in fast-flowing water conditions.