🐆 Peruvian Panther Pleco (Hypancistrus sp., L174)
🐆 Peruvian Panther Pleco (Hypancistrus sp., L174)
Spotted • Dwarf • Rare
📋 The Peruvian Panther Pleco (Hypancistrus sp., L174) is a small, beautifully patterned pleco with a striking leopard-like design of dark spots and stripes on a lighter base. Native to Peru’s upper Amazon tributaries, this species is closely related to the popular Zebra and Snowball plecos.
Reaching only 4–5 inches, it is an excellent choice for community and planted aquariums. Peaceful toward fish but territorial with other plecos, it needs caves and driftwood for shelter. Its bold markings and small size make it a favorite among collectors of Hypancistrus plecos.
💡 Highlights
🐆 Panther Pattern – Spots & stripes like a leopard
🌿 Omnivore Diet – Eats algae & protein foods
📏 Dwarf Pleco – Stays under 5 inches
✅ Community Friendly – Peaceful with fish
💎 Rare L-Number – Imported from Peru
🧾 A Quick Look at the Peruvian Panther Pleco (L174)
📛 Common Name: Peruvian Panther Pleco
🔬 Scientific Name: Hypancistrus sp. (L174)
👨👩👧 Family: Loricariidae
🌍 Origin: Peru – Upper Amazon tributaries
📏 Max Size: 10 – 12 cm (4 – 5")
💧 pH Range: 5.5 – 7.2
🌡️ Temperature Range: 25 – 30°C (77 – 86°F)
🧠 Care Level: Intermediate
💖 Temperament: Peaceful, territorial with plecos
🏠 Min Tank Size: 100 L (30+ US gallons)
📌 Tank Level: Bottom dweller
🧬 Captive Bred: ❌ No
🌿 Wild Caught: ✅ Yes
⏳ Lifespan: 8 – 10 years
🍽️ Diet: Omnivore – algae, sinking wafers, protein foods
🐣 Reproduction: Cave spawner in aquariums
