Panaque nigrolineatus

Family: Loricariidae

Panaque nigrolineatus — a Loricariidae from South America. Reaches 32.2–47.3 cm; keep at 24–30 °C.

Care parameters

Water temperature
24–30 °C
pH
6–7.5
GH hardness
5–18 dGH
Adult length
32.2–47.3 cm
Minimum tank
500 L
Water layer
Bottom-dwelling
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Peaceful; territorial over a favourite cave
Origin
South America

Species overview

Panaque nigrolineatus is a Loricariidae from South America. In the wild it prefers rocky and woody stretches of streams; in the aquarium it stays peaceful. Plan on 32.2–47.3 cm of adult fish at 24–30 °C. In a community tank it pairs well with Similar-sized peaceful community fish.

Native biotope

Habitat
Rocky and woody stretches of streams
Flow
Moderate current with well-oxygenated water
Dissolved O₂
Appreciates high dissolved oxygen

Aquascape & hardware

Substrate
Sand and gravel with driftwood
Hardscape
Driftwood and smooth stones with grazing surfaces
Plants
Hardy plants; algae growth welcomed

Temperament, diet & tankmates

Schooling
Singles, pairs or small groups
Diet
Herbivorous-leaning omnivore; algae and sinking foods
Recommended tankmates
  • Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs
Avoid keeping with
  • Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates

Breeding & notes

Sexual dimorphism
Males develop odontodes on the snout
Breeding method
Cave spawner; male guards the clutch

Frequently asked questions

Is Panaque nigrolineatus easy to keep?

A moderate-level species: peaceful; territorial over a favourite cave; stable water matters more than fancy equipment.

What temperature and water chemistry does Panaque nigrolineatus need?

Set the heater to 24–30 °C and avoid swings. pH 6–7.5, GH 5–18 dGH suit it.

How big does Panaque nigrolineatus get, and what tank size?

Expect 32.2–47.3 cm as an adult, living bottom-dwelling. A 500 L tank or larger gives it room.

What does Panaque nigrolineatus eat?

Herbivorous-leaning omnivore; algae and sinking foods. Feed two small meals a day rather than one large one.

Can Panaque nigrolineatus live with other fish?

Yes, with care. Peaceful; territorial over a favourite cave — pair it with Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs and skip Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates.

Where does Panaque nigrolineatus come from?

Native to South America, where it lives in rocky and woody stretches of streams. Moderate current with well-oxygenated water; Appreciates high dissolved oxygen.

How does Panaque nigrolineatus breed?

Cave spawner; male guards the clutch. Males develop odontodes on the snout.