L397 Pleco

The L397 Alenquer Tiger Pleco (Panaqolus sp. L397) is a strikingly patterned freshwater catfish native to the Rio Xingu in Brazil. This small-to-medium-sized pleco, growing to around 5 inches (12–13 cm), is highly sought after for its bold orange and black striped pattern, making it a visually stunning addition to any aquarium.
 
Homebred in Omaha, Nebraska. Every L397 we sell is bred in-house in our Omaha fishroom. Our breeding colony was established from carefully selected founder stock and has been producing healthy fry consistently for multiple generations. Buying homebred L397s means you get juveniles that are already acclimated to stable tank conditions, eating prepared foods, and adapted to standard hobbyist water parameters, with none of the stress, acclimation losses, or parasites that come with wild-caught or freshly imported plecos. This is hobbyist-to-hobbyist, tank-to-tank.
 
Unlike many other plecos, the L397 is a wood-eating species that primarily feeds on biofilm, algae, and fibrous materials found in driftwood, along with a diet supplemented by vegetables and high-quality prepared foods.
 
This species thrives in warm, soft, and slightly acidic water, requiring good filtration and well-oxygenated conditions. They prefer a well-structured tank with plenty of hiding spots, such as caves and driftwood, where they can retreat and feel secure. Generally peaceful, the L397 Pleco can coexist with other community fish but may show territorial behavior toward other plecos, especially when space is limited. Because our fry are raised in our own water from day one, they transition exceptionally well to new aquariums.