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Blue Crown Aqua
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L226 pleco
L226 pleco
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$39.99 USD
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$39.99 USD
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The L226 Pleco, scientifically known as Panaqolus changae, is a small, attractive species of armored catfish. Commonly referred to as the Iquitos Tiger Pleco, it is highly prized by hobbyists for its striking, tiger-like orange and black bands.
Natural Habitat & Profile
- Origin: Native to the Peruvian Amazon, specifically the warm, soft waters of the Nanay, Momón, and Itaya rivers near the city of Iquitos.
- Adult Size: Reaches a very manageable maximum length of 5 inches (12 cm). This makes it an excellent choice for medium-sized home aquariums compared to common plecos that quickly outgrow standard setups.
- Temperament: Generally peaceful community fish, though they can occasionally display minor territorial behavior toward other bottom-dwellers over preferred hiding spots.
Dietary Requirements (Wood Eaters)
Unlike typical algae-eating catfish, the L226 belongs to a group of xylivores (wood eaters).
- Essential Driftwood: You must provide ample driftwood in the aquarium. They actively rasp on wood to extract crucial microorganisms and cellulose necessary for their digestive health.
- Supplemental Diet: They should be fed high-quality sinking wafers, spirulina pellets, and fresh vegetables like sliced zucchini or cucumber.
Tank Setup & Care Parameters
To keep your Iquitos Tiger Pleco thriving, aim for an environment with plenty of hiding spaces, caves, and moderate water movement.
- Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons.
- Water Temperature: 72°F to 84°F (22°C to 29°C).
- pH Range: 6.5 to 8.0 (preferring slightly soft to neutral water).
- Water Hardness: 6–12 dGH.
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