Here’s a clear, straight-shooting care guide for the L239 Blue Panaque, also known as the Blue Panaque Pleco—a small, striking species prized for its deep blue-gray coloration.
L239 Blue Panaque (Baryancistrus beggini) Care Guide
Common Names:
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Blue Panaque
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L239
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Blue Fin Pleco
Scientific Name: Baryancistrus beggini
Origin: Upper Orinoco River, Venezuela
Size: 4–5 inches (10–12.5 cm)
Lifespan: 8–10 years
Temperament: Peaceful, shy, semi-territorial
Tank Setup
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Tank Size: 30 gallons minimum for one adult
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Substrate: Sand or smooth gravel
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Decor:
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Driftwood, caves, stacked slate, rounded rocks
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Plenty of tight, shaded hiding spots
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Plants: Compatible, but may uproot delicate types
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Lighting: Low to moderate—prefers dim, shaded areas
Water Parameters
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Temperature: 79–86°F (26–30°C)
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pH: 6.0–7.2
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Hardness: Soft to moderate (2–12 dGH)
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Filtration: Strong with high oxygen—needs clean, well-oxygenated water
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Water Changes: 40–50% weekly—sensitive to poor water quality
Diet
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Feeding Style: Omnivorous with a preference for protein-rich foods
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Staple Diet:
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High-quality sinking carnivore or omnivore pellets
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Frozen or live foods (bloodworms, brine shrimp, mysis)
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Occasional blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach, sweet potato)
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Note: Doesn’t eat much wood—unlike other Panaques
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Feeding Frequency: Once or twice daily, remove uneaten food
Behavior & Tankmates
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Activity: Mostly nocturnal but may venture out during the day once comfortable
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Temperament: Peaceful, but can be territorial with other bottom dwellers
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Compatible Tankmates:
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Peaceful community fish: tetras, rasboras, dwarf cichlids, small barbs
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Avoid large/aggressive cichlids or other plecos unless plenty of space and hides
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Care Tips
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Needs plenty of oxygen—add extra surface agitation or air stones
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Keep multiple hides to prevent stress or conflict
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Sensitive to dirty tanks—maintain excellent water quality
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Stable temperatures are key—don’t let it dip below 78°F
Breeding
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Rare in home aquariums—breeding is difficult and unconfirmed in most setups
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In the wild: Presumed cave spawner like similar species
Let me know if you want this turned into a printable card or included in a larger pleco care pack.
