Panaque sp. nigrolineatus L190 (Golden line royal pleco)  

Another beautiful catfish from Brazil, this relatively small (compared to other Panague sp. nigrolineatus species) is also peaceful and apart from being a nice addition to any large tank is also a good algae eater. In my personal opinion it is the most beautiful fish of its kind and it is supposed to keep the white band on its tail even when grown up.  A fish with no special requirements as far as the water values are concerned will do well in a broad range of pH values (6.5-7.5). The ideal aquascape is a tank with stones, many roots and crevices big enough to be used by it - considering its final size which is almost half that of the common Panaque sp. nigrolineatus (approximately 15-20cm). Almost ideal for a planted tank, it will not eat plants but may destroy your fine aquascape while moving around. An omnivore fish will take any food offered but if the algae in the tank is not enough some green stuff should be offered (spirulina tablets or pellets, fresh spinach or lettuce). Will not grow to a large size so it can be kept in considerably smaller tanks (about 100 liters). Ideal for community tanks as well. This particular specimen is 10 cm long and it lives in the 1300 liter Madagascan tank (3 individuals) while two more live in the planted discus tank.

See also recommendations for Panaque sp.

Francesco added the following remark: Please note that a piece of bogwood is absolutely essential for the well being of this particular species since the lignine and tannins contained in it stimulate its digestion process.

Photo by G.Reclos-MCH