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Description
The Tanke Tiger Pleco (Panaqolus tankei) is native to the Rio Xingu in Brazil, this pleco is recognized for its beautiful tiger-like stripes.
Reaching a size of about 4.7 inches , the Tanke Tiger Pleco is a great addition to various aquarium setups. Males develop elongated interopercular odontodes and noticeable odontodes along their back during the breeding season, while females tend to have wider bodies when gravid. This species thrives in tanks with several types of wood to chew on, as wood is a significant part of their diet. They also enjoy a primarily vegetarian diet, including algae wafers, zucchini, and tubers like potatoes and yams.
These plecos are compatible with most peaceful community fish but can be somewhat territorial towards their own kind. With enough hiding spaces, a group can coexist in a suitably sized aquarium. The Tanke Tiger Pleco is a cave breeder, where males guard the eggs and fry until they are self-sufficient.