L260 Queen Arabesque Pleco Care Guide
Hypancistrus sp. "L260"
Overview
The Queen Arabesque Pleco is a strikingly patterned small Loricariid known for its bold black-and-white maze-like markings. Native to the Rio Tapajós in Brazil, this species is both peaceful and highly sought after in the aquarium trade. Ideal for aquarists who appreciate intricate beauty and who can provide clean, well-oxygenated water.
Tank Setup
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Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons (larger preferred if keeping more than one)
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Tank Type: Heavily aquascaped with hiding places — use driftwood, rock caves, and ceramic pleco tubes
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Substrate: Fine sand or smooth gravel
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Lighting: Low to moderate (they prefer subdued lighting or shaded areas)
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Filtration: Strong and efficient, with a high oxygen turnover—canister filters and sponge filters work well
Water Parameters
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Temperature: 78–84°F (25.5–29°C)
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pH: 6.0–7.2 (slightly acidic to neutral)
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Hardness: Soft to moderately hard (3–10 dGH)
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Ammonia/Nitrites: 0 ppm
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Nitrates: <20 ppm
Consistency and water quality are vital—do regular partial water changes (30–50% weekly) to maintain ideal conditions.
Behavior and Tankmates
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Temperament: Peaceful and shy
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Activity: Nocturnal; most active during the evening and early morning
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Tankmates: Great with small, peaceful community fish like tetras, rasboras, and corydoras. Avoid aggressive or territorial species.
They are territorial with their own kind, so if housing multiple L260s, provide many hiding spots to reduce stress and competition.
Diet
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Primary Diet: Carnivore
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Preferred Foods:
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Sinking carnivore pellets
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Frozen bloodworms
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Brine shrimp
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Daphnia
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Repashy Gel Foods (Carnivore blend)
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They are not algae eaters and won’t survive on plant matter or algae wafers alone. Feed once or twice daily, ideally during lights-off hours.
Breeding
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Breeding Difficulty: Moderate to difficult
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Requirements:
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Slight temperature drop and increased flow to simulate rainy season
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Caves for males to guard eggs
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Spawning Behavior:
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Males trap females in caves, fertilize eggs, and guard them until hatching
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Fry Care:
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Eggs hatch in about a week
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Fry should be fed microworms, baby brine shrimp, or powdered fry food
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Patience and a stable, stress-free environment are crucial for successful breeding.
Common Health Issues
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Skin and Fin Damage: From sharp décor or aggressive tankmates
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Internal Parasites: Watch for weight loss despite eating
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Oxygen Stress: Signs include gasping or hanging near filter outlets—ensure high aeration
Prevent disease by avoiding overcrowding and maintaining pristine water conditions.
Summary
The L260 Queen Arabesque is a visually stunning pleco ideal for advanced beginners or experienced aquarists. It thrives in a clean, stable, and well-oxygenated tank with minimal light and a carnivore-based diet. Though breeding requires care and patience, this fish is a worthwhile addition to any soft water aquarium designed with detail and respect for its natural habitat.
