[1] The royal panaque is closely related to the popular plecostomus catfish kept in many aquaria as an algae eater.

Because they are heavy and inflexible, they do not swim well, but they do have a strong sucker-like mouth that enables them to hold onto rocks and wood in fast flowing waters.

This subspecies' wild population is under intense pressure from harvest for the ornamental fish trade.

All share the same basic colouration but vary in the shape and distribution of the stripes and the amount of cream or gold on the fins.

[4][5] Maintenance is as for other Panaque, with the fish needing plenty of space, well oxygenated water, and a regular supply of vegetables and wood on which to feed.

Young are often imported in an undernourished state and require dedicated attention to recover.