Queen Arabesque Pleco L260

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Live Fish

  • DOA Cover*
  • Insulated Box & Heat Pads
Shipping & Returns

All live fish are shipped using NZPost overnight services with authority to leave (no signature).

We cannot guarantee the overnight services, this is a service that we/you pay for; but is not guaranteed.

We DO NOT offer returns on any alive animal.

Above are key points of our policy, Click Here to read our full shipping policy.

Dead On Arrival (DOA) Cover*
  • DOA must be reported within 2 hours of delivery.
  • Bags must remain sealed (do not remove rubber band or tape)
  • Photos & Videos must be supplied this can be emailed or sent through live chat; including your order No. (minimum 3 clear images, showing dead fish & sealed bag)
  • DOA does not apply once the bags are opened & fish have been released.
  • DOA does not apply to any Rural (RD) address.

Click Here for DOA Cover Policy

Introducing New Fish

Follow these steps to minimize stress and ensure a smooth transition for your new fish!

  1. Float the Bag: Place the sealed bag containing the new fish in the tank. This equalizes the temperature between bag and tank water.
  2. Open and Add Tank Water Gradually: After about 5 minutes, open the bag and add a small amount of aquarium water into it every 5 minutes for 15–30 minutes. This helps the fish acclimate to the tank’s water chemistry.
  3. Wait 15–30 Minutes: Let the fish adjust to the water temperature and chemistry gradually in the bag.
  4. Release Fish: Gently release the fish into the tank without pouring the original bag water in.

Queen Arabesque Pleco L260

Scientific Classification

  • Common Name: Queen Arabesque Pleco

  • L-number: L260

  • Scientific Name: Hypancistrus sp.

  • Family: Loricariidae (Armored Catfish)

  • Origin: Rio Tapajós Basin, Brazil, South America

Physical Description

  • Size: Up to 3.5–4 inches (9–10 cm)

  • Coloration: Elegant black-and-white maze-like arabesque patterning across the body and fins. The base is typically black or dark brown with ivory to white lines.

  • Body Shape: Flattened ventrally with a slightly upturned head and powerful pectoral fins.

Tank Requirements

  • Temperature: 78–86°F (25–30°C)

  • pH: 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)

  • Water Hardness: Soft to moderate (up to 12 dGH)

  • Substrate: Soft sand or fine gravel, with driftwood and rocks for hiding

Behavior & Compatibility

  • Temperament: Generally peaceful but territorial with their own kind, especially males.

  • Tank Position: Bottom dweller, most active at night (nocturnal).

  • Best Tankmates: Peaceful community fish such as small tetras, rasboras, or Corydoras. Avoid aggressive or large cichlids.

  • Hiding Spots: Requires plenty of caves, driftwood, or tubes to reduce stress.

Diet

  • Type: Omnivore (with carnivorous leanings)

  • Preferred Foods:

    • Sinking carnivore pellets

    • Frozen or live foods (bloodworms, brine shrimp)

    • Occasional vegetables (zucchini, cucumber)

  • Note: Less reliant on algae than many other plecos.

Breeding

  • Difficulty: Moderate to hard

  • Breeding Behavior: Cave spawner; males guard the eggs

  • Tips:

    • Provide narrow caves

    • Simulate rainy season (lower temp, increase water changes)

    • Successful breeding often requires a group with both sexes and patience

Special Considerations

  • Oxygenation: Prefers well-oxygenated water with moderate flow

  • Lighting: Dim lighting or floating plants help mimic natural habitat

  • Lifespan: Typically 8–10 years with proper care

 

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