Iquitos Tiger Pleco (L226)

The Iquitos tiger pleco is a small, tiger-patterned Panaqolus from the rivers around the city of Iquitos in Peru. In the hobby it is known by the number L226; it is named after the Peruvian ichthyologist Fonchii Chang. Adults grow to about 10 cm.

Like its close relatives it is a wood-eating species and does not stay healthy in the aquarium without driftwood. It can be confused with the similar-looking L206 and LDA26. Because it gnaws on wood, fine sawdust-like waste builds up in the aquarium; regular gravel vacuuming should be done.

• 100 liters for one or two fish.
• Several pieces of driftwood, caves and spaces under roots.
• Strong mechanical filtration, good aeration; 25–27°C.
• A 30% water change every week.

Wood fiber is part of its diet. Make blanched zucchini, cucumber, peas, spinach and vegetable sinking tablets the staple; bloodworms can be given occasionally.

Peaceful and nocturnal; during the day it hides under roots. Males may chase each other over wood and caves. It usually does not harm plants.

Good companions: Tetras, rasboras, corydoras, dwarf cichlids, shrimp.

Avoid: Large cichlids that claim the bottom, large territorial plecos.