L330 Panaque Albomaculatus (Wild Caught) 2.5″-3.5″

The L330 Panaque albomaculatus, commonly known as the Watermelon Pleco, Royal Pleco, or simply L330, is a stunning species of pleco from the Loricariidae family. This species is highly sought after for its unique appearance and wood-eating habits, which set it apart from other plecos. They originate from fast-flowing rivers in the Amazon basin, and their size and specific dietary needs make them a species better suited for large, well-maintained aquariums.

• Appearance:
  • Body: Panaque albomaculatus has a robust, heavily armored body typical of many Panaque species. Their bodies are covered with bony plates, offering them protection from predators and rough environments.
  • Coloration: Their most distinctive feature is their greenish or brownish body color, adorned with lighter, cream-colored spots and stripes, resembling the rind of a watermelon, which gives them the “Watermelon Pleco” name. Their caudal fin (tail) often has thick, bold stripes running through it.
  • Size: L330 plecos can grow quite large, reaching lengths of up to 30–40 cm (12–16 inches) in captivity, making them one of the bigger plecos available in the hobby.
• Habitat:
  • Native regions: They are found in the rivers of the Amazon Basin, specifically in areas with fast-flowing water and plenty of submerged wood.
  • Environment: In their natural habitat, they prefer fast-moving, well-oxygenated water with a rocky substrate and lots of driftwood, which they use for shelter and as a food source.

• Feeding habits: One of the most unique features of Panaque albomaculatus is their ability to consume wood. Their specialized teeth and digestive system allow them to feed on decaying wood, which forms a significant part of their diet. In captivity, they should be provided with plenty of driftwood, which they will rasp on and consume. In addition to wood, they also eat plant matter, algae wafers, and occasionally fresh vegetables like zucchini and cucumber.
• Temperament: Generally peaceful, but like other plecos, they can be territorial with conspecifics or other plecos, especially when it comes to securing their favorite hiding spots or driftwood. However, they usually coexist peacefully with other fish species that occupy different levels of the aquarium.

• Tank size: Given their large size and active nature, an L330 pleco requires a spacious tank. A minimum of 125 gallons is recommended, but a larger tank (150–200 gallons) is ideal for long-term care. They need plenty of space to move around and access to large pieces of driftwood.
• Water conditions: L330 plecos thrive in soft, slightly acidic water (pH 6.0–7.5), with a temperature range of 25–30°C (77–86°F). As they come from fast-flowing environments, they need well-oxygenated water with good current. A strong filtration system and regular water changes are necessary to maintain high water quality, as they produce a lot of waste due to their wood-eating habits.
• Aquascape: Driftwood is essential for their well-being, as they need it for both feeding and shelter. The tank should have plenty of driftwood of various sizes and types, along with rocks or caves to provide hiding places. Soft sand or smooth gravel can be used as a substrate. Plants may not fare well in their tanks, as they tend to uproot them while searching for food or while rasping on wood.
• Diet: While wood is a major part of their diet, they also require supplemental feeding with algae wafers, sinking pellets, and fresh vegetables such as blanched zucchini, cucumber, and sweet potato. Occasional protein in the form of frozen foods like bloodworms or shrimp can be offered, but it should not be a staple.

• Reproduction: Breeding L330 plecos in captivity is extremely rare. In the wild, they are cave spawners, laying their eggs in crevices or cavities. The conditions required to trigger breeding in captivity, such as specific water parameters, large caves, and seasonal changes, are difficult to replicate.

• Tank mates: L330 plecos are peaceful and can be kept with other large, non-aggressive fish. Suitable tank mates include larger cichlids (like Severums, Geophagus, or Uaru), large tetras, and peaceful catfish. Avoid overly aggressive or highly territorial species, as well as smaller fish that may be intimidated by their size.
• Wood-eating habits: Their wood-eating habits mean that large pieces of driftwood should always be present in the tank, as it forms a crucial part of their diet. They will rasp on it regularly, which can help reduce waste production, but it also means that they will require frequent water changes to maintain good water quality.

• Water quality: L330 plecos are relatively hardy but require pristine water conditions due to their size and the amount of waste they produce. High-quality filtration, combined with regular water changes, is essential for their long-term health.
• Driftwood: Since driftwood is essential for both their diet and natural behavior, it’s important to provide plenty of it. Large pieces of driftwood not only help with their digestion but also offer hiding places and territory markers.

• Similarities: Like other Panaque species (such as the L191 and L027), the L330 shares the same wood-eating behavior and general care requirements. All Panaques need driftwood and well-oxygenated water.
• Differences: The L330 is distinguishable from other Panaque species by its watermelon-like coloration, with lighter spots and stripes over a greenish-brown body. It also tends to have slightly different patterning than species like Panaque nigrolineatus (Royal Pleco), which typically has straight lines across its body.