Royal Panaque lovers.. questions for you!

[lmt6600]

I received two Royals not too long ago and they are about 8". At what size do they start growing whiskers?
I don't see any signs that they are growing any. I've read some say only males grow whiskers, is this accurate?
I've also read some say they remove the whiskers for shipping purposes so that the plecos dont puncture the bag, any truth to this?
Lastly, if they in fact remove them, will they grow back?

Thanks

in the tank

[megacat]

IME they start to grow at around 9"-10"TL where they're clearly visible.
Usually at 6"-7"TL you can see small ones starting to grow.

They usually grow back if they are kept in good conditions and fed well.

I'm not sure about males only growing them.

[Acanthicus]

Hi,

At what size do they start growing whiskers?

measuring 8 inch yours already could have whiskers, but they don't grow the same in all individuals.

I've read some say only males grow whiskers, is this accurate?

No, females also have whiskers.

I've also read some say they remove the whiskers for shipping purposes so that the plecos dont puncture the bag, any truth to this?

I could imagine this, but it would be visible on the specimen, because you would have to cut them.
I've also heard that they use duc tape to fix them, but it's only a rumour.

Lastly, if they in fact remove them, will they grow back?

Yes, comparable to your finger nails.


The first L 330 is about 7-8 inch as well: