Royal Pleco (L-191)

Royal Pleco (L191) Care Guide

Description

The royal pleco (Panaque sp. L191), also known as the dull-eyed royal pleco, is a large, wood-eating pleco native to South America.

Recognized for its bold black-and-grey coloration and armored body,

it grows up to 43 cm and can live for 10-15 years with proper care.

Habitat Setup

A 400-liter (100-gallon) tank or larger is required for an adult.

Provide a sandy or smooth gravel substrate, plenty of driftwood (essential for their diet), caves, and hiding spots.

Water should be warm (24-28°C), with a pH of 6.0-7.5 and strong filtration with high oxygenation.

Diet & Feeding

Royal plecos are herbivorous wood eaters that require driftwood to graze on.

Their diet should also include vegetables (zucchini, cucumber, sweet potato), algae wafers, and occasional protein-based foods like shrimp pellets.

Avoid excessive protein to prevent digestive issues.

Behavior & Tank Mates

They are generally peaceful but territorial, especially toward other plecos.

Ideal tank mates include large tetras, peaceful cichlids, silver dollars, and other non-aggressive fish.

Avoid housing them with highly aggressive or overly active species.

Health & Maintenance

Regular water changes (30-40% weekly) and strong filtration are necessary to maintain water quality.

Watch for bloating, poor digestion, and fin damage. Ensuring a diet rich in fiber and maintaining a low-stress environment helps prevent health issues.

Final Tips

The royal pleco is a stunning and long-lived pleco that requires a large, well-maintained tank with plenty of driftwood.

With the right diet and environment, it will thrive and be a unique addition to any large aquarium. ????????