Papa Lyretail Pleco

Found in the fast-flowing white water reaches of the lower Napo and middle Amazon rivers in Peru, the L090c or ‘Ojo Chico’ (‘small eye’ in Spanish) is an uncommonly seen species of Panaque distinguished by its large lyre-shaped tail and long caudal streamers. Juvenile Panaque schaeferi are often improperly identified as L090 ‘Papa Lyretail’ as young fish of both species look similar but P. bathyphilus can be distinguished by a more ornate pattern, smaller eyes, and reddish tail fin. Reaching a size of about 14″, this fish is suitable for large aquaria and unlike some species of Panaque retains its attractive pattern and lyre tail through adulthood. Like their relatives, they are adapted for a diet consisting primarily of driftwood in the wild and should be offered plenty of driftwood in the aquarium. They will readily accept fresh veggies and specialty prepared diets like Repashy’s Morning Wood in the aquarium.

L090c ‘Ojo Chico’ Papa Lyretail Pleco (Panaque bathyphilus)

Origin: Wild Peru
Locale: Rio Amazonas and lower Napo outside Iquitos
Diet: Algae grazer and omnivore. Like most Panaques, eats a substantial amount of driftwood in the wild.
Adult Size: 12″
Recommended Tank Size: 120 gallons
Compatibility: Peaceful, but can be territorial towards other plecos

Preferred Water Parameters
pH: 6.5 – 7.5
Temp: 76-82F
Ammonia: 0ppm
Nitrite: 0ppm
Nitrate: <30ppm