L 239 - BLUE PANAQUE PLECO

The blue panaque pleco (Panaque cochliodon) is a striking and fascinating fish, known for its vibrant colors and unique appearance. Here’s a guide to help you care for this beautiful species:

Tank Setup

1. Tank Size: Blue panaque plecos can grow quite large, up to 24 inches (60 cm) in length. A tank of at least 75 gallons is recommended for adults, but a larger tank is preferable to provide ample swimming space.

2. Tank Environment: They are native to slow-moving rivers and streams, so they prefer a well-filtered tank with a gentle water flow. Providing hiding spots using driftwood, caves, and rocks will make them feel more secure.

3. Substrate: Use a soft substrate like sand or fine gravel. This will help protect their delicate barbels.

Water Conditions

1. Temperature: Maintain the water temperature between 74-82°F (23-28°C). A heater may be necessary to keep the temperature stable.

2. pH Level: They prefer a slightly acidic to neutral pH, ideally between 6.5 and 7.5.

3. Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water is best, with a hardness range of 2-15 dGH.

4. Filtration: Use a high-quality filter that provides good water circulation. Regular water changes (about 25-30% weekly) are important to keep the water clean and healthy.

Diet

1. Diet: Blue panaque plecos are primarily herbivores. Their diet should consist of high-quality algae wafers, vegetables like zucchini, cucumber, and spinach. They also enjoy driftwood, which helps with their digestive health and provides essential nutrients.

2. Feeding: Feed them once or twice a day, offering only what they can eat within a few hours to avoid overfeeding and water pollution.