L191 Royal Pleco (2-2.5”)

Scientific Name: Panaque nigrolineatus (L191 variant commonly known as the Broken Line Royal Pleco)

• Maximum Size and Lifespan:

  • Can grow up to 15–17 inches (38–43 cm) in captivity.

  • Lifespan averages 10–15 years with proper care, sometimes longer.

• Recommended Aquarium Size, Water Changes, and Care:

  • Minimum tank size of 180 gallons for an adult. Juveniles can be raised in 30-150 gallon tank for better observation

  • Requires strong filtration and high oxygenation; additional powerheads or wavemakers are recommended.

  • Weekly water changes of 30–40% are ideal to maintain water quality.

  • pH 6-7.5 

  • Temperature range of 75–82°F

  • Provide plenty of driftwood, which is essential for their diet and also provides cover.

• Tankmates:

  • Generally peaceful towards other fish but territorial with other large plecos.

  • Best kept with similarly sized, non-aggressive fish such as larger tetras, south/central american cichlids, silver dollars, and catfish species.
    

• Diet:

  • True xylophagous pleco—requires a diet that includes wood (driftwood must always be present).

  • Supplement with sinking algae wafers, spirulina tablets, fresh vegetables (zucchini, cucumber, peas, spinach), and occasional protein (shrimp pellets, bloodworms, or prawns in moderation).

  • A diet without constant access to wood will lead to digestive issues and poor health.

• Overview:

  • The L191 Royal Pleco is a striking, large-growing loricarid known for its bold striped pattern and need for wood in its diet.

  • They are hardy once established but need a very large, well-maintained aquarium due to their adult size and waste output.

  • Their slow growth rate means they remain manageable for several years before reaching their maximum size.

• Natural Environment:

  • Found in fast-flowing, rocky tributaries of the Amazon and Orinoco River basins, particularly in Colombia and Venezuela.

  • Inhabits driftwood-filled areas where it grazes on submerged wood and biofilm.

  • Water is typically oxygen-rich with moderate to strong currents.

• Breeding:

  • Breeding in captivity is extremely rare and very difficult due to their size and specific requirements.

  • In nature, they are believed to spawn in deep caves or crevices in submerged wood.

  • No reliable records of successful captive breeding on a hobbyist level; most available specimens are wild-caught.