XL L330 Watermelon Pleco (11-12”)

Common Name: Watermelon Pleco

• L-number: L330

• Scientific Name: Panaque nigrolineatus laurafabianae 

• Family: Loricariidae

• Origin: Rio Orinoco basin, South America (mainly in Colombia and Venezuela)

• Adult Size: Up to 18–24 inches (45–60 cm)

Natural Environment

• Habitat: Fast-flowing rivers with rocky substrates

• Water Conditions:

  • Temperature: 77–86°F (25–30°C)

  • pH: 6.0–7.5

  • Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water

• Substrate: Rock, gravel, and sand mix with ample hiding spots in submerged roots or crevices

These fish are primarily nocturnal and territorial, especially around hiding spots.

Diet

L330 Plecos are omnivorous with a strong carnivorous tendency. In the wild, they feed on:

• Small invertebrates

• Crustaceans

• Organic detritus

• Occasionally algae

In aquariums, we recommend:

• High-quality carnivore sinking pellets or wafers

• Frozen or live foods (bloodworms, shrimp, mussels)

• Occasional vegetables (zucchini, spinach, cucumber — but not a primary diet)

A protein-rich diet is essential for healthy growth and coloration.

 Recommended Aquarium Setup

• Tank Size: Minimum 150 gallons (570 liters) for adults

• Juveniles can be housed in smaller tanks, but they grow quickly.

• Aquascape:

  • Strong filtration and water movement

  • Plenty of caves, driftwood, and rock formations for hiding. Wood is essential to the aquarium as it is a requirement of their diet. 

  • Sand or fine gravel substrate

• Tank Mates:

  • Best with robust, mid- to top-dwelling fish such as Arowana, Datnoids, Oscars, Silver Dollars, Etc.

  • Avoid other bottom dwellers or plecos unless the tank is very large due to territorial behavior