Species profile
L260 Queen Arabesque Pleco
Hypancistrus sp. L260
Peaceful
Moderate care
120 L minimum aquarium
8–12 cm adult size
Bottom
Can be kept singly
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Retained deliberately as L260; it remains an aquarium L-number form rather than being forced into an unsupported species name.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
26–30 °C
pH
6–7.2
GH
2–12 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Moderate–high
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Can be kept singly
Tank zone
Bottom
Territory level
Moderate
Predation risk
None
Bioload factor
1.5
Can be kept in groups with sufficient caves, though males may defend preferred shelters.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Yes
Shrimp safe
Yes
Snail safe
Yes
Cave breeder
Yes
Digs substrate
No
Jump risk
Low
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
Not yet documented
Diet type
Omnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
120 L
Minimum footprint
80 × 40 cm
Accepted scientific name
Hypancistrus sp. L260
Alternative names
Queen Arabesque Pleco, L260
Native range
Rio Tapajós drainage, Pará, Brazil, around the Santarém–Pimental region.
Natural habitat
Warm oxygen-rich rocky river habitat. Provide caves, good current and excellent filtration.
Diet & feeding
Adults favour meaty foods; use frozen invertebrates and quality sinking foods, with some vegetable matter.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Males have broader heads and stronger odontodes on the body and pectoral spines.
Breeding
Male cave-spawner; provide multiple caves and stable warm well-oxygenated water.