Panaqolus albivermis
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to variations within species, your item may not look identical to the image
provided
Synonyms |
None |
Distribution |
Peru |
Sexual Dimorphism |
Mature males develop fine body denticles that
|
Maximum Size |
15cm (5.9") |
Temperature |
25-30 deg C (77-86 deg F). High O2 level
|
Water Parameters |
pH: 6.0-7.5, dH: up to 15 degrees. |
Compatibility |
Community of fish that prefer warmer-than-average
|
Lighting |
Dim-medium |
Care
The Flash Plec is known from the Rio San Alejandro, a
tributary of the upper Rio Ucayali in Peru. As a member of the Panaqolus
("dwarf Panaque") genus, this species is ideally suited to average
sized aquaria, providing that a few key requirements are met. Firstly the tank
should be biologically mature and must contain an abundance of bogwood, as this
forms an essential part of the diet (these fish can actually be heard rasping
their way around the aquarium!). There should be plenty of sheltered retreats created
from the bogwood as well as from smooth rockwork, so that these nocturnal
catfish feel comfortable during the day. They do not enjoy overly bright
illumination, so ensure that there are many shady areas formed by driftwood,
caves, and even floating plants, which will help to diffuse the light. Robust
plants such as Anubias and Java Fern could be included (tied to the wood for
best results) but avoid soft-leaved or delicate plants as these will be
uprooted or eaten. Excellent water conditions should be maintained at all times
via the use of a powerful filtration system that can cope with the amount of
?wood waste?. A good current and high level of oxygenation will serve the fish
well, and may even tempt them into breeding. Flash Plecs are generally very peaceable,
but males will squabble with one another over territory, so if planning on
maintaining more than one specimen, ensure the tank is spacious and furnished
with enough visual barriers and caves to keep everyone happy. These catfish are
peaceful towards other types of fish and should only be kept alongside small
quiet species e.g. small tetras, hatchet fish, pencilfish, rainbowfish,
Corydoras catfish etc. Avoid keeping with nippy species which may find the long
lyretail of the Flash Plec too tempting.
Feeding
The aquarium MUST contain bogwood for these wood-eating
fish to feed upon. Vegetable matter such as courgette, cucumber, potato,
squash, sweet potato etc will also be enjoyed, and this can be supplemented
with algae wafers and sinking catfish pellets. The odd treat of mosquito larvae
should be ok, but avoid feeding protein-rich foods on a regular basis as this
will cause digestive issues.
Breeding
This species has been
bred in the home aquarium. A clutch of around 50 yellow eggs are deposited in a
cave, which the male guards and takes care of. The eggs should hatch in 6-7
days