Panaque Bathyphilus L90
A few large-growing types of Panaque are exported from Peru, one of them is L90, P.bathyphilus. It’s possibly the most beautiful of the large Panaque species, with it’s marble pattern of black stripes and the very elongated white caudal extensions. It can also be identified by it’s small eyes. If given betacarotene-rich food, the caudal fin may turn pale orange in colour.
Facts:
Name: Panaque bathyphilus (Lujan & Chamon, 2008)
Trade names: L90, Panaque sp. “Papa”, Papa Pleco Ojo Chico
Origin: Rio Ucayali, Rio Huallaga, Peru. Described from Rio Solimões, Brazil.
Maximum size: 60 cm / 24''
All Panaque species must be provided lots of wood in their environment, as this is needed for their digestive system. They should also be fed a varied menu of vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, cucumbers and such. Additional dry foods like tablets should also be given. If given too much protein rich/fat food their digestive system will suffer. Panaques are large growing fish, so they must be given enough space. A very good filtration system is required to maintain a good water quality and break down the amounts of waste produced by these grazing machines. Regular water changes are of course also essential. They are very peaceful, and will not go after even the smallest fish for food. As they age, males may become more territorial and quarrelsome towards each other. Males develop extreme odontodal growth on their cheeks and pectoral fins. Breeding is very rare in captivity due to the size of the fish, but has occurred. The eggs are placed in a shelter among wood, or in cavities large enough for the adults.
More info:
http://www.l-welse.com/reviewpost/showproduct.php/product/102
http://www.planetcatfish.com/common/species.php?species_id=199