Royal Pleco

Panaque nigrolineatus

CatfishAdvanced
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Species Details

Large, magnificent pleco with striking patterns. Requires huge tanks and produces massive amounts of waste when adult.

Advanced Care Level

Basic Information

Size40+ cm (16+ inches)
TemperamentPeaceful
DietHerbivorous
Lifespan10-15+ years
Tank Size1000+ litres (250+ gallons) when adult

Water Parameters

Temperature
24-30°C (75-86°F)
pH Level
6.0-7.5
Hardness
5-20 dGH

Tank Mate Recommendations

Based on 1 selected species

Current Selection:

Royal Pleco
Fully Compatible Species
Compatible

Malawian Cichlids

Various Pseudotropheus, Melanochromis, Labidochromis

Cichlids
Size:7.6-15.2 cm (3-6 inches)
Care Level:Intermediate
Temperament:Aggressive/Territorial
100%
Compatible

Tanganyikan Cichlids

Various Lamprologus, Julidochromis, Neolamprologus

Cichlids
Size:5-20 cm (2-8 inches)
Care Level:Intermediate
Temperament:Semi-aggressive
100%
Compatible

Barbs

Various Barbus, Puntius species

Cyprinids
Size:5-15 cm (2-6 inches)
Care Level:Beginner
Temperament:Peaceful/Semi-aggressive
100%
Compatible

Gouramis

Various Trichogaster, Colisa species

Anabantoids
Size:5-25 cm (2-10 inches)
Care Level:Beginner
Temperament:Peaceful/Semi-aggressive
100%
Compatible

Rainbowfish

Various Melanotaenia, Pseudomugil species

Rainbowfish
Size:7-15 cm (3-6 inches)
Care Level:Beginner
Temperament:Peaceful
100%
Compatible

Loaches

Various Botia, Chromobotia species

Loaches
Size:5-30 cm (2-12 inches)
Care Level:Intermediate
Temperament:Peaceful
100%

💡 Tank Mate Tips

• Consider adult size when planning tank space

• Research specific water parameter requirements

• Introduce new fish gradually to reduce stress

• Monitor behavior closely during the first weeks

Quick Facts

Large, impressive pleco with distinctive patterns

Can reach 40+ cm (16+ inches) in aquariums

Requires massive tanks when fully grown

Herbivorous with strong wood-eating tendencies

Produces enormous amounts of waste

Needs large pieces of driftwood

Lives 10-15+ years with proper care

Beautiful but often outgrows home tanks

Young specimens are more manageable

Peaceful but territorial with other large plecos

Compatibility Summary

Compatible Species6
Requires Caution6
View full compatibility analysis →

Care Requirements

Tank Size1000+ litres (250+ gallons) when adult
Temperature24-30°C (75-86°F)
pH6.0-7.5
Hardness5-20 dGH

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