Not furry, but we like them anyway.

Queen Arabesque Pleco

Hypancistrus sp. L260 (undescribed)

Also called L260

SpeciesShort profile

From Lower Rio Tapajós in Pará, northern Brazil, between Santarém and Pimental1

At a glance the quick version

Lengthup to 9 cm1

Sizesmall

Elegant fine-lined pattern

Generally peaceful

Breeds in caves in home aquariums

Looks how to spot one

Armoured suckermouth catfish

A small, flattened pleco with a dark body covered in fine, maze-like white lines, giving it a lace or arabesque look. The pattern is finer than in the look-alike L411. Males have broader heads and more odontodes on the pectoral fins, and older males may turn darker.1

Coloursblack basefine white vermiculated lines1

Personality what they are like

A generally peaceful bottom-dweller that keeps to caves and rocky areas.1

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Most active in low light; appreciates moving, well-oxygenated water.1

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Keep water at 24 to 30 C, pH 5.5 to 7.5 and hardness 1 to 15 dGH, with good filtration and regular partial water changes.1

Home where they are happiest

Seriously Fish suggests a base of at least 90 x 30 cm (about 81 litres), with caves and rocks for each fish.1

Food basics what goes in the bowl

An omnivore that prefers small invertebrates. Offer sinking dried foods, frozen Daphnia, mosquito larvae, bloodworm and shrimp, with vegetables now and then.1

Company who they like around

Fits a peaceful setup. Avoid mixing it with other Hypancistrus species, as they can cross-breed.1

The story where it all began

Known only by its trade code L260, this pleco has no formal scientific name yet. It has become one of the most popular plecos in the hobby and is now regularly bred in aquariums.1

Fun facts for the dinner table

1
Despite being widely kept, it has not yet been formally described by scientists.1
2
It looks very similar to L411, but its white lines are noticeably finer.1
3
Seriously Fish calls it one of the most popular loricariids in the hobby, available on a regular basis.1

Recognised by the official bits

Aquarium trade codes: L260; not yet formally described by science1

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Queen Arabesque Pleco. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

FeedingSmall amounts once or twice a dayevery day
Temperature checkevery day
Water changeAbout 25% of the waterevery week
Water testevery week
Glass cleanevery week
Filter rinseRinse in old tank water, never tap waterevery month

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my Queen Arabesque Pleco?

Feed small amounts once or twice a day. Furry Diary's starting plan is to offer food daily, but watch your fish and adjust so nothing is left uneaten after a few minutes.1 Pet Wiki plan

What does a Queen Arabesque Pleco eat, and what should it never eat?

This omnivore enjoys sinking dried foods, frozen Daphnia, mosquito larvae, bloodworm, and shrimp, plus occasional vegetables. Never feed it anything that isn't designed for fish, and avoid overfeeding high-protein foods.1

How much space does a Queen Arabesque Pleco need?

Seriously Fish recommends a base of at least 90 x 30 cm, which is about 81 litres. Provide caves and rocks for each fish to feel secure.1

What temperature, light or water does a Queen Arabesque Pleco need?

Keep water between 24 and 30 C, with a pH of 5.5 to 7.5 and hardness of 1 to 15 dGH. It is most active in low light and appreciates moving, well-oxygenated water.1

How often should I clean a Queen Arabesque Pleco's home?

Furry Diary's plan suggests a weekly partial water change of about 25%, along with a weekly glass clean and water test. Rinse the filter monthly in old tank water, never tap water. Pet Wiki plan

Can a Queen Arabesque Pleco live with others?

Yes, it fits a peaceful community setup. Avoid mixing it with other Hypancistrus species to prevent cross-breeding.1

How long does a Queen Arabesque Pleco live?

Lifespan varies widely depending on care, water quality, and diet. For a more precise estimate, ask a good breeder or an exotic-pet vet.

Can I handle a Queen Arabesque Pleco?

It is best not to handle this fish; it is a sensitive bottom-dweller that can be stressed by handling. Always use a container or net if you must move it.1

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.