Panaqolus claustellifer L-306

A Little More Information...

The Bloodred Tiger, sold under the code Panaqolus claustellifer L-306, is a highly sought-after South American loricariid valued for its contrasting pattern and sturdy body shape. This bottom-dwelling fish belongs to the genus Panaqolus and is distinguished by dark bands, reddish-brown tones and a discreet nature. Native to the Rio Takutu in Brazil, it inhabits wooded areas where current shapes a habitat rich in roots and submerged wood. Its high rarity makes it best suited to aquarists able to provide stable water, strong oxygenation and a suitable diet for wood-eating fishes.

General species description

Panaqolus claustellifer L-306 is a small armored bottom catfish appreciated for its “tiger pleco” appearance and generally peaceful presence. It is most active at dusk and during the night, sheltering in cavities and beneath wood during the day. In an aquarium, it requires a mature, well-oxygenated setup with plenty of hiding places. Its diet relies heavily on soft wood with decomposing fibres, supplemented with plant matter and sinking foods. Although it is known as a secretive fish, it becomes more visible when it feels secure. Its aquarium value is increased by its high rarity and distinctive red-and-black pattern.

Geographic origin and biotope

The species is associated with the Rio Takutu in Brazil, within an Amazonian area where the water may appear slightly amber to brown when organic matter is present. The habitat includes wooded banks, submerged roots, accumulated branches and areas of moderate current. The riverbed is generally composed of sand, fine gravel and woody debris, with shelter provided by trunks and stones. In an aquarium, these features can be recreated with natural wood, efficient filtration and regular water movement without producing an excessively strong current.

Precise location and local name

The geographic reference used for Panaqolus claustellifer L-306 is the Rio Takutu in Brazil. The most commonly used trade name is Bloodred Tiger, a vernacular name referring to its dark red colour and striped pattern. The L-306 code belongs to the aquarium designation system used for loricariids imported before, or without, a stable scientific name. To reduce confusion, it is preferable to purchase fish from the same strain and keep records of their river of origin, especially when breeding is being considered.

Appearance and physical characteristics

The body of Panaqolus claustellifer L-306 is stout, ventrally flattened and protected by bony plates typical of loricariids. Its sucker mouth allows it to attach to wood, rocks and glass surfaces. The colour combines a reddish-brown to deep red background with dark vertical bands, whose intensity varies with age, mood and lighting. The fins often carry a matching pattern, while the reinforced rays add to its spiny appearance. The eyes and barbels are relatively subtle. A dark layout with wood and moderate lighting helps display its Bloodred Tiger colours.

General diet

Panaqolus claustellifer L-306 is primarily a detritivore and wood-eater. Real wood should therefore be available at all times to support digestion and natural behaviour. Supplement it with sinking foods rich in plant matter, spirulina-based wafers and blanched vegetables such as zucchini or cucumber. A small portion of more protein-rich food may occasionally be offered, but it should not become the dietary foundation. The best approach is to feed after the lights go out and ensure that food actually reaches the bottom. A varied diet and well-colonized wood are essential for maintaining good condition.

Essential data

• River of origin: Rio Takutu
• Local name used: Bloodred Tiger
• Origin of the scientific name: Panaqolus identifies the genus; claustellifer is the specific epithet assigned to the species.
• Etymology of the full name: Panaqolus is the generic name; claustellifer is a Latinized name formed as a zoological epithet. L-306 is an aquarium designation.
• Common/vernacular names: Bloodred Tiger, L-306
• Family: Loricariidae
• Subfamily: Hypostominae
• Name pronunciation: pa nak oh lous - klaw stell lih fer
• Discovery: marketed and circulated in the aquarium trade under the L-306 code.
• Maximum adult size: approximately 15 cm
• Water temperature and pH: 25 to 29 °C; pH 6.0 to 7.5
• Watercourse appearance and surrounding vegetation: wooded banks, roots, submerged branches and dense riparian vegetation.
• Typical tankmates: small peaceful characins, calm dwarf cichlids, non-competitive bottom fishes and similarly sized Amazonian species.
• Temperament and behaviour: peaceful and secretive, mainly crepuscular and nocturnal; territorial around the best shelters.
• Water depth: shallow to moderately deep bottom areas.
• Sexual dimorphism: adult males may develop more pronounced odontodal growth on the cheeks and body; identification requires experience.
• Bottom structure and flow: sand, fine gravel, wood and plant debris; moderate to strong flow with well-oxygenated water.

In your aquarium

Very rare in shipments, Panaqolus claustellifer L-306 deserves an aquarium reserved for compatible South American bottom fishes, with oversized filtration, clean water and regular maintenance. Provide several shelters, plenty of natural wood and a well-oxygenated flow area. Avoid food competition with large loricariids and remove uneaten vegetables. Slow acclimation, night feeding and long-term parameter stability will support its adjustment. Success depends mainly on respecting its nocturnal lifestyle, its need for wood and its preference for structured habitats.