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 yellow spots – reminiscent of mustard seeds – it is one of the most attractive members of the Panaqolus genus. Its vibrant markings make it a real eye-catcher in any South American aquarium.

The LDA031 remains compact at approximately 10–12 cm in length and, due to its peaceful nature, is ideally suited for community aquariums. It likes to stay on driftwood and, as a typical wood raspberry, contributes to natural algae control.

🌿 Characteristics & Attitude:
🐠 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 other members of their species
🌾 Aquarium: From 100 liters, with roots, stones, caves & gentle current

🍽️ Feeding:
The Panaqolus albomaculatus (LDA031) is a typical wood-eater ( xylophagous ). It requires soft driftwood in the aquarium, which it regularly rasps. It also eats plant-based foods such as algae wafers, spirulina, vegetable chips, zucchini, and cucumber. Frozen foods (e.g., brine shrimp, cyclops) can be offered as a supplement.

💡 Tip:
A well-structured aquarium with roots and caves provides a sense of security and well-being. The yellow spots of the LDA031 stand out particularly brightly against a dark substrate.

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