Emperor Pleco (L204) Panaque sp.



Fish Statistics
Minimum Tank Size:150 litres
Diet:Omnivore
Origin:South America
Temp (C):22-27 C
Max Size:12 cm
Family:panaque
Temperament:Semi-aggressive
pH:6.5 - 7.5
Care Level:Moderate

The Emperor Pleco originates from the Rio Alejandro in Peru. The "flash" is narrow bands of white or yellow against a black background. It is also sometimes called the Flash Peckoltia. Emperor Plecos must have wood in their tank, which they enjoy eating. They prefer strong water flow, sand and hiding places or caves. Emperor Plecos are not aggressive.
Adult coloring becomes more yellow and lines can become interrupted by the underlying darker body color. Males are slightly larger than females and have longer pectoral fins. Breeding is extremely difficult and Flash Plecos are obtained commercially in the wild in Peru.
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Nice write up Curby.

I would like to add further that their prime source of food is wood and they will eat a lot of it.
Wood sawdust poop will not break down in a canister and you will have to give it a clean every few weeks or it will clog.

At the lower temperatures I have noticed a marked drop in feeding activity and 28C seems to be a happy temp.
I have had them get to 32C in a really hot day and they were fine, although none too happy about it.