LDA031 Mustard Spot Pleco – Panaqolus albomaculatus | Rare Wild Caught & Peaceful Wood Eater

The LDA031 Mustard Spot Pleco (Panaqolus albomaculatus) is a beautiful, rare wild-caught specimen from the Rio Napo in Ecuador. With its dark brown base color and bright yellowish spots – reminiscent of mustard seeds – it is one of the most attractive representatives of the Panaqolus genus. Its vibrant markings make it a real eye-catcher in any South American aquarium.

The LDA031 remains compact at a final size of approximately 10–12 cm and, due to its peaceful nature, is ideal for community aquariums. It likes to stay on roots and, as a typical wood-rasper, contributes to natural algae control.

🌿 Characteristics & Husbandry:
🐠 Fish Size: L (6–8 cm)
🌎 Origin: Ecuador (Rio Napo) – Wild-caught
🌡️ Temperature: 25–30 °C
💧 pH Value: 6.0–7.5
⚖️ Total Hardness: up to 18 °dGH
🐟 Social Behavior: Peaceful, calm, territorial towards conspecifics
🌾 Aquarium: From 100 l, with roots, stones, caves & light current

🍽️ Feeding:
The Panaqolus albomaculatus (LDA031) is a typical wood-eater (xylophagous). It requires soft driftwood in the aquarium, which it regularly scrapes. Additionally, it eats vegetable food such as algae wafers, spirulina, vegetable chips, zucchini, and cucumber. Frozen food (e.g., Artemia, Cyclops) can also be offered as a supplement.

💡 Tip:
A richly structured aquarium with roots and caves provides security and well-being. On a dark substrate, the yellow spots of the LDA031 shine particularly intensely.

👉 Conclusion:
The LDA031 Mustard Spot Pleco (Panaqolus albomaculatus) is a peaceful, small wild-caught specimen with striking spotted markings – perfect for lovers of intensely colored Panaqolus species and natural South American aquariums.