Royal Pleco

The Royal Pleco is a large, majestic loricariid marked with grey-blue bodies, dark striping and striking red eyes, native to the fast-flowing, wood-strewn rivers of the Orinoco basin in Colombia and Venezuela. Like its relatives it is a specialised wood-eater, using spoon-shaped teeth to rasp driftwood; abundant soft bogwood is mandatory, supported by vegetables and only sparing protein. Growing to over 40 cm, it needs a spacious, powerfully filtered aquarium with strong current and high oxygen, mimicking its rheophilic habitat. It is territorial and can be belligerent toward other bottom-dwellers, so provide large caves and generous floor space; one adult per tank is safest. Maintain 22-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5 and clean, well-oxygenated water. Slow-growing but very long-lived, it is best suited to experienced keepers with big systems.