L397 Alenquer Tiger Pleco (Panaqolus sp. L397) – Vibrant Striped Beauty for Planted Aquariums
The L397 Alenquer Tiger Pleco is a stunning, small-sized pleco species native to the Alenquer region of Brazil. Known for its bold orange and black tiger-like striping, this pleco is a favorite among aquascapers and pleco enthusiasts. Its vivid colors, manageable size, and peaceful nature make it perfect for planted community aquariums or South American biotopes.
Unlike larger Panaque species, the L397 stays relatively small and is wood-eating (xylophagous) — meaning it thrives with plenty of driftwood in the tank. This fish loves to hide in caves and crevices, especially during the day, and becomes more active at night.
Scientific Name:Panaqolus sp. L397
Common Name: Alenquer Tiger Pleco, L397
Size Shipped: ~1-1.5 inches
Adult Size: ~4–5 inches
Temperament: Peaceful, shy bottom-dweller
Lifespan: 8–10+ years
Swimming Level: Bottom
Origin: Tank-bred (originally wild from Rio Xingu, Alenquer region)
Temperature: 78°F – 84°F (25.5°C – 29°C)
pH: 6.4 – 7.4
GH: 4 – 10
KH: 2 – 6
Tank Size: 20 gallons minimum
Aquascape: Driftwood, stone caves, soft sand or fine gravel
Filtration: Moderate to strong flow with good oxygenation
✔ Vibrant orange-and-black banding – truly striking colors
✔ Compact size – suitable for most home aquariums
✔ Peaceful and community-friendly
✔ Wood-eating species – adds realism to biotope aquascapes
✔ Ideal for collectors and pleco breeders
Wood fiber is essential (driftwood should always be present)
High-quality veggie-based wafers or pellets
Fresh veggies (blanched zucchini, cucumber, sweet potato)
Occasional protein foods (Repashy Soilent Green, blackworms)
Feed once daily, remove uneaten food to avoid fouling
The L397 Tiger Pleco is an excellent choice for aquarists who want a colorful, peaceful pleco with manageable care requirements. Its unique coloration and compatibility with planted tanks make it a showpiece in any aquarium.
L397 Alenquer Tiger Pleco (Panaqolus sp. L397) – Vibrant Striped Beauty for Planted Aquariums
The L397 Alenquer Tiger Pleco is a stunning, small-sized pleco species native to the Alenquer region of Brazil. Known for its bold orange and black tiger-like striping, this pleco is a favorite among aquascapers and pleco enthusiasts. Its vivid colors, manageable size, and peaceful nature make it perfect for planted community aquariums or South American biotopes.
Unlike larger Panaque species, the L397 stays relatively small and is wood-eating (xylophagous) — meaning it thrives with plenty of driftwood in the tank. This fish loves to hide in caves and crevices, especially during the day, and becomes more active at night.
Scientific Name:Panaqolus sp. L397
Common Name: Alenquer Tiger Pleco, L397
Size Shipped: ~1-1.5 inches
Adult Size: ~4–5 inches
Temperament: Peaceful, shy bottom-dweller
Lifespan: 8–10+ years
Swimming Level: Bottom
Origin: Tank-bred (originally wild from Rio Xingu, Alenquer region)
Temperature: 78°F – 84°F (25.5°C – 29°C)
pH: 6.4 – 7.4
GH: 4 – 10
KH: 2 – 6
Tank Size: 20 gallons minimum
Aquascape: Driftwood, stone caves, soft sand or fine gravel
Filtration: Moderate to strong flow with good oxygenation
✔ Vibrant orange-and-black banding – truly striking colors
✔ Compact size – suitable for most home aquariums
✔ Peaceful and community-friendly
✔ Wood-eating species – adds realism to biotope aquascapes
✔ Ideal for collectors and pleco breeders
Wood fiber is essential (driftwood should always be present)
High-quality veggie-based wafers or pellets
Fresh veggies (blanched zucchini, cucumber, sweet potato)
Occasional protein foods (Repashy Soilent Green, blackworms)
Feed once daily, remove uneaten food to avoid fouling
The L397 Tiger Pleco is an excellent choice for aquarists who want a colorful, peaceful pleco with manageable care requirements. Its unique coloration and compatibility with planted tanks make it a showpiece in any aquarium.
