Blue Panaque Pleco – L239

L239 Blue Panaque Pleco (Baryancistrus Beggini)

The L239 Blue Panaque Pleco is a unique and captivating species. This pleco is known for its striking coloration, which is a blend of dark and light blue, giving it a mesmerizing appearance. They have a robust body structure and can measure between 3 to 4 inches as adults.

The Blue Panaque Pleco is a peaceful species, making it a good choice for a community aquarium. However, it can be territorial, especially towards other plecos, so it's best to keep only one per tank unless the aquarium is spacious enough to accommodate more. Ideal tank mates include peaceful species that occupy the middle and upper levels of the tank, such as smaller characins. Housing them with similar species or large cichlids is not recommended, as they may compete for hiding spots.

This pleco is an omnivore with a preference for a veggie-based diet. It enjoys a variety of foods, including cucumber, zucchini, lettuce, squash, sinking wafers/tablets, and occasional treats of meaty frozen foods like bloodworms and chopped krill. However, it's important to note that they require a diet high in vegetable matter and should not be fed excessive meaty foods as this can lead to health problems.

The ideal tank habitat for the Blue Panaque Pleco is designed to simulate a flowing stream. The substrate should be soft sand, and the tank should be furnished with various pieces of smooth rock, slate, terracotta pipes, and bogwood to create plenty of shady caves and crevices. Robust aquarium plants like Java Fern, Bolbitis, or Anubias spp. can be added for coverage. The lighting should be moderately dim.

The L239 Blue Panaque Pleco, like many species that naturally live in flowing waters, needs a clean environment to thrive. It's sensitive to the buildup of organic waste, so maintaining pristine water conditions is crucial for its well-being. The water should have brisk movement and a high level of dissolved oxygenation. This can be achieved by using a mix of canister filters and powerheads. Regular water changes are another key aspect of care for this species. Changing 40-70% of the water weekly is a good practice to follow. This routine helps keep the water fresh and clean, contributing to the overall health and happiness of your Blue Panaque Pleco.

The minimum aquarium size for this species is 30 gallons, but a larger tank would be more suitable for a community setup. The water parameters for the Blue Panaque Pleco include a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5, water hardness should be kept within the soft to medium range of 1-10 dGH, and a temperature range of 75-82°F (24-28°C). The Blue Panaque Pleco thrives best in aquariums that have been fully cycled and matured.

The L239 Blue Panaque Pleco is a beautiful and interesting species that require specific care and conditions to thrive. Its unique coloration and peaceful nature make it a wonderful addition to a well-maintained aquarium.