Description:
The differences between the Panaqolus and
the Panaque genera is that the latter has
an oval shaped mouth and the jaws have very large
spatulate teeth with a single cusp, arranged in a
v form and Panaqolus have a small number
of spatulate teeth and are also a smaller genus. P.
albomaculatus individuals from different localities
can differ in the size and colour of the spots. The
top thumbnail specimen is likely to come from Ecuador
while the next two down show the colour pattern of
the species from Peru. Aquarium Care: Peaceful in the aquarium but not suitable
for planted tanks as they are plant eaters. Diet:
All Panaques and also the Panaqolus
genera are wood eaters so would need this in an aquarium
set-up. Feed also vegetable foods such as cucumber,
courgette (zucchini) and sinking tablets. Sexual
Differences: Males have long interopercular
spines and their body is adorned with hair-like spines.
Etymology: The specific name albomaculatus:
albo-, from albus (L.), white; maculatus (L.), spotted,
referring to small, rounded, light-coloured spots
on head, body and fins.
Common
Name:
LDA031, Orange Spot Pleco
Synonyms:
Panaque albomaculatus
Family:
Loricariidae
Distribution:
South America:
Ecuador: Tributary of the Rio Suno. Peru:
Headwaters of the Napo, Marañon and Ucayali
rivers.
Size:
13.0cm. (5¼ins)
Temp:
24-29°c (75-85°f.)
p.H.
6.0-7.5.
IUCN
Red List
The
species is listed as Least
Concern due to its wide range and because
the threats are localised but needs updating (IUCN 2016).
Panaqolus
albomaculatus Male showing its Interopercular Spines
Panaqolus
albomaculatus
Panaqolus
albomaculatus
Panaqolus
albomaculatus
Panaqolus
albomaculatus Dorsal head view
Panaqolus
albomaculatus
Panaqolus
albomaculatus Male showing its Interopercular Spines
Panaqolus
albomaculatus Male showing its body armour
Panaqolus
albomaculatus Showing the spoon shaped teeth of this genus
Panaqolus
albomaculatus
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