The L397 Alenquer Tiger Pleco, also known as the L397 Red Tiger Pleco or L397 Alenquer Tiger, is a stunning and sought-after pleco species that can make a captivating addition to your aquarium. Here's some information about the L397 Alenquer Tiger Pleco:

• Appearance: The L397 Alenquer Tiger Pleco features a striking pattern of reddish-orange and black stripes on its body, which gives it a unique and eye-catching appearance. It has a streamlined body shape with a flattened abdomen and a prominent dorsal fin. As it reaches 6cm to 7cm in size, it starts to exhibit its adult coloration and pattern.

• Habitat and Origin: This pleco species is native to the Amazon River basin in Brazil, specifically the Alenquer region. It inhabits slow-moving rivers, streams, and flooded forest areas. The L397 Alenquer Tiger Pleco is primarily a nocturnal species that spends its days hiding in crevices and caves.

• Tank Setup: The L397 Alenquer Tiger Pleco requires a well-decorated aquarium with plenty of hiding spots and caves. Provide driftwood, rocks, and caves where they can retreat and establish their territories. A sandy or fine-grained substrate is recommended, along with moderate water flow. Adequate filtration and regular water changes are essential to maintain optimal water quality.

• Water Conditions: These plecos prefer slightly acidic to neutral water conditions with a pH range of 6.0-7.5. The temperature should be maintained between 25-29°C (77-84°F). It is important to provide good water circulation and maintain stable water parameters to ensure the well-being of the fish.

• Feeding: The L397 Alenquer Tiger Pleco is primarily a herbivorous species but will also consume some meaty foods. Offer them a varied diet consisting of high-quality sinking pellets or wafers designed for bottom-dwelling fish. Supplement their diet with blanched vegetables like zucchini, spinach, and cucumber. They may also nibble on algae and biofilm in the aquarium.

• Behavior and Tank Mates: The L397 Alenquer Tiger Pleco is generally a peaceful species but can exhibit territorial behavior, especially towards its own kind. It is best to keep them in a species-only tank or with other peaceful and similarly-sized fish that share similar water parameters. Avoid keeping them with aggressive or fin-nipping species that may stress or harm them.

• Care and Compatibility: The L397 Alenquer Tiger Pleco requires a well-maintained aquarium with suitable tank mates. Provide them with ample hiding spots and territories to minimize aggression. Regular water changes and diligent maintenance of water quality are crucial to their overall health and well-being.

• Breeding: Breeding the L397 Alenquer Tiger Pleco can be challenging and requires specific conditions. Provide them with caves or PVC pipes as potential spawning sites. The female will lay eggs in these cavities, and the male will guard and fan them. It is advisable to research specific breeding techniques and conditions to increase the chances of successful breeding.

• Lifespan: With proper care, the L397 Alenquer Tiger Pleco can live for 10-15 years or longer. Providing them with a well-balanced diet, suitable tank conditions, and a stress-free environment will contribute to their overall health and longevity.

The L397 Alenquer Tiger Pleco is a stunning and captivating pleco species that can become a focal point of your aquarium. Its unique coloration and pattern, along with its peaceful temperament, make it a desirable choice for fish enthusiasts. With proper care and attention to their specific needs, these plecos can thrive and add beauty to your aquatic setup.