L226 Iquitos Tiger Pleco – Panaqolus Changae – South American Catfish

Product: L226 Iquitos Tiger Pleco – Panaqolus Changae – South American Catfish

Short Description:
The L226 Iquitos Tiger Pleco, scientifically known as Panaqolus Changae, is a stunning South American catfish that will add beauty and uniqueness to your aquarium. With its vibrant coloration and distinctive patterns, this fish is a true eye-catcher. This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the necessary information to ensure the well-being and longevity of your L226 Iquitos Tiger Pleco.

Product Categories:
Catfish, Fish

Attributes:
– Secure Transit: Our 24-hour courier service ensures your fish arrive safely with poly boxes and heat packs during colder months.
– Shipping Convenience: Combine multiple items in one order to streamline shipping.
– Dead on Arrival (DOA) Policy: Should any fish arrive deceased, promptly inform us with photographic evidence, and we will refund you or send you a replacement.

Product Description:

Scientific and Common Names:
The L226 Iquitos Tiger Pleco is scientifically known as Panaqolus Changae. It is also commonly referred to as the Iquitos Tiger Pleco or simply Tiger Pleco.

Habitat:
This species is native to the Amazon River basin in South America, specifically found in the Iquitos region of Peru. It inhabits slow-moving rivers and tributaries with rocky substrates and plenty of hiding spots.

Tank Setup:
To provide a suitable environment for the L226 Iquitos Tiger Pleco, a spacious aquarium with a minimum capacity of 30 gallons is recommended. The tank should be well-aerated with a strong filtration system to maintain water quality. Decorate the tank with rocks, driftwood, and caves to mimic its natural habitat and provide hiding places.

Diet and Nutrition:
The L226 Iquitos Tiger Pleco is primarily herbivorous, feeding on algae and plant matter in the wild. In captivity, it should be offered a varied diet consisting of high-quality sinking pellets, algae wafers, blanched vegetables (such as zucchini and spinach), and occasional live or frozen foods like bloodworms or brine shrimp.

Size and Growth Rate:
When fully grown, the L226 Iquitos Tiger Pleco can reach a size of around 5-6 inches (12-15 cm). The growth rate of this species is relatively slow, and it may take several years to reach its maximum size.

Behavioral Traits:
This catfish species is generally peaceful and can be kept with other non-aggressive fish species. However, it is territorial and may exhibit aggression towards its own kind or similar-looking species. The L226 Iquitos Tiger Pleco is primarily nocturnal and will spend most of its time hiding in caves or crevices during the day.

Care Level:
The L226 Iquitos Tiger Pleco requires moderate care. Regular water parameter monitoring, proper diet, and a suitable tank setup are essential for its well-being. Routine maintenance, such as partial water changes and substrate cleaning, should be performed to maintain optimal conditions.

Breeding and Reproduction:
Breeding the L226 Iquitos Tiger Pleco in captivity can be challenging. It is a cave spawner, and providing suitable caves or PVC pipes for spawning is necessary. The water parameters should be carefully controlled, with slightly acidic to neutral pH and slightly elevated temperatures. The male will guard the eggs until they hatch, and the fry can be fed with specialized fry food or finely crushed flakes.

Health and Disease Prevention:
Maintaining excellent water quality is crucial for the overall health of the L226 Iquitos Tiger Pleco. Regular water changes, proper filtration, and avoiding overfeeding are essential. Quarantining new fish before introducing them to the main tank can help prevent the spread of diseases. Common diseases that may affect this species include ich, fin rot, and bacterial infections.

Optimal Water Conditions:
– Temperature: 75-82°F (24-28°C)
– pH: 6.0-7.5
– Hardness: 2-15 dGH

Lifespan:
With proper care, the L226 Iquitos Tiger Pleco can live for 10-15 years or even longer.

Additional Interesting Facts:
– The L226 Iquitos Tiger Pleco is known for its striking coloration, featuring a dark body with vibrant yellow or orange stripes and spots.
– It is a highly sought-after species among aquarium enthusiasts due to its unique appearance.
– This catfish species is known to be a proficient algae eater, helping to keep the aquarium clean.
– The L226 Iquitos Tiger Pleco is a relatively rare species in the aquarium trade, making it a prized addition to any collection.