Care
The Orange Spot Pleco is known from tributaries of the Rio Suno in Ecuador, and from the headwaters of the Napo, Maraion, and Ucayali rivers 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. Orange Spot Plecos 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.
There are thought to be several colour/pattern forms of these fish, which vary according to collection location; it is unclear at this stage as to whether they are all P. albomaculatus, or whether some may represent different species. However, all specimens have a dark base colour, with the spots varying from off-white through to bright mustard, and as such these fish may also be seen on sale as Mustard Spot Pleco.
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
The Orange Spot Pleco has not been bred in the home aquarium. Panaqolus species tend to be a bit more challenging to breed compared to other plecos, and this would make for an interesting breeding project for dedicated hobbyists. In large aquaria containing mature fish, an increase in water current coupled with a series of cool partial water changes with soft water may trigger a pair into spawning amongst small tight caves.
