L191 Panaque Suttonorum (Wild Caught) 1″-2″

The L191 Panaque suttonorum, commonly known as the Royal Pleco or Dull-eyed Royal Pleco, is a popular wood-eating pleco species from the Loricariidae family. It is one of the various species of the Panaque genus, known for their unique ability to consume wood as part of their diet. This species is appreciated for its impressive size, striking coloration, and peaceful demeanor, making it a favorite for large, well-maintained aquariums.

• Appearance:
  • Body: L191 has a large, bulky body covered in armored plates, typical of Panaque species. Their broad head and large eyes give them a distinctive look.
  • Coloration: The body is a dark olive or brownish color with faint, irregular light stripes or lines running horizontally along the body and fins. Their fins are usually darker, often black, with lighter edges. The eyes are dull-colored compared to other plecos, giving them the “dull-eyed” appearance.
  • Size: L191 Royal Plecos can grow quite large, reaching up to 40 cm (16 inches) in length, making them suitable only for spacious aquariums.
• Habitat:
  • Native regions: Found in fast-moving rivers in South America, particularly in Colombia and Venezuela, including the Orinoco and Meta River basins.
  • Environment: In their natural habitat, they prefer areas with submerged driftwood, rocks, and strong water currents. These rivers are well-oxygenated, with lots of wood and plant debris for the fish to feed on.

• Feeding habits: Like other Panaque species, L191 Royal Plecos are xylophagous (wood-eating). Their specialized teeth and digestive systems allow them to break down and digest decaying wood. In addition to wood, they consume algae, plant material, and occasionally small invertebrates. In captivity, they need constant access to driftwood for rasping.
• Temperament: L191 is generally peaceful and can be kept with other fish. However, they can become territorial with other plecos, particularly if there is competition for space or hiding spots. They are nocturnal, spending much of the day hiding and becoming more active at night.

• Tank size: Due to their large size, L191 plecos require a spacious aquarium of at least 125 gallons, but a larger tank (150–200 gallons) is recommended for a group or for keeping them long-term. A long tank with plenty of horizontal space and height is ideal, as they grow to be quite large.
• Water conditions: L191 Royal Plecos prefer soft, slightly acidic to neutral water (pH 6.0–7.5) with a temperature range of 25–30°C (77–86°F). Strong water flow and good oxygenation are essential, replicating the fast-flowing rivers where they originate. They are quite hardy as long as water conditions are kept stable and well-maintained.
• Aquascape: The tank should include large pieces of driftwood, as it is an essential part of their diet and provides hiding spots. The substrate can be soft sand or smooth gravel. Rocks and caves should be provided for them to hide and establish territory. Plants can be included, though they may uproot or rasp on soft-leaved plants, so hardy plants like Java Fern, Anubias, or Vallisneria are better options.
• Diet: Their diet should be primarily focused on wood, so plenty of driftwood must be present in the tank. Supplement their diet with algae wafers, sinking pellets, and fresh vegetables like blanched zucchini, cucumber, and sweet potatoes. They also enjoy occasional protein-rich foods such as bloodworms, though it should be provided sparingly.

• Reproduction: Breeding L191 Panaque plecos in captivity is rare and not well-documented. Like other Panaques, they are believed to be cave spawners in the wild. Replicating their natural breeding conditions in a home aquarium, including providing adequate cave structures and the right water parameters, can be challenging.

• Tank mates: L191 is peaceful and can be housed with other large, non-aggressive fish. Good tank mates include larger tetras, discus, peaceful cichlids (like Geophagus, Severums, or Uaru), and other plecos that are not too territorial. Avoid aggressive or highly territorial species, as well as small, delicate fish that could be stressed by their size or activity.
• Wood-eating habits: Since L191 plecos are wood-eaters, they require constant access to driftwood. The wood they rasp provides essential fiber and helps with their digestion. They will not survive without driftwood in the tank.

• Water quality: Maintaining high water quality is essential due to the large size and wood-eating nature of the L191, which results in significant waste production. High-quality filtration, strong water flow, and regular water changes are crucial for their long-term health.
• Driftwood: Provide a variety of driftwood types and sizes. They will rasp on it regularly, which can reduce the need for some other foods but does lead to an increase in waste in the tank, so be prepared for more frequent water maintenance.

• Similarities: Like other Panaque species, L191 shares the ability to consume wood and has a similar care profile. They also tend to grow large and have a peaceful nature.
• Differences: L191 is distinguished by its dark coloration and dull-colored eyes compared to the more brightly colored Panaque nigrolineatus (Royal Pleco). Its patterns are more muted, and it has a bulkier appearance than some other Panaque species like L027.