Royal Pleco Care Guide (L190 / L191)

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Introduction

Royal Plecos are among the most striking catfish in the hobby. With their bold black and cream striped patterning, armoured bodies and impressive size, they make a dramatic statement in any large aquarium. The L-number system classifies them as L190 (Panaque nigrolineatus) and L191 — related river variants. The Suttoni Blue Eye Panaque is a closely related species with striking blue eyes.

What makes Panaque species unique is their ability to digest wood — they are among the very few vertebrates known to extract nutrition from cellulose. Driftwood is not optional decor; it is a dietary requirement.

Tank Setup

• Size: 5 x 2 ft tank minimum for an adult.
• Driftwood: Provide multiple large pieces. This serves as food, shelter and territory. The fish will visibly rasp at the wood — this is normal and healthy.
• Hiding spots: Royal Plecos are nocturnal and secretive. Caves, large PVC pipes and overhanging driftwood provide security.
• Current: Moderate to strong flow — they originate from fast-flowing rivers.

Water Parameters

Temperature: 26-30 C. pH: 6.5-7.5. Hardness: 4-12 dGH. Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm. Nitrate below 30 ppm. These fish produce large amounts of waste from wood rasping — powerful filtration with good mechanical media is essential.

Feeding

• Driftwood: Always present — essential for gut health.
• Courgette and cucumber: Blanch and weight down. Highly appreciated.
• Sweet potato, butternut squash: Good variety items.
• Algae wafers: Hikari Algae Wafers or New Life Spectrum Algaemax.
• Repashy gel food: Soilent Green or Morning Wood (formulated for wood-eating plecos).
• Occasional protein: Bloodworm or sinking carnivore pellet — plecos are opportunistic omnivores.

Aggression Between Plecos

Royal Plecos are highly territorial toward their own kind. Two males in a tank will fight — battles involving locking spines can be fatal. If keeping multiple plecos, ensure the tank is 6 ft+ with multiple distinct territories and sight breaks between them.

Common Health Issues

• White spot: Treat with aquarium salt at 1-2 g/L and raised temperature (28-30 C). Plecos are sensitive to many chemical treatments.
• Wasting/starvation: Sunken belly despite eating usually indicates internal parasites. Treat with Prazipro.