Common Name: L351 Sachamama Pleco
Scientific Name: Panaqolus sp.
Other Names: L351 Pleco, Sachamama Wood-Eating Pleco
The L351 Sachamama Pleco is a rare and highly sought-after Panaqolus species known for its intricate dark and light patterning, which provides excellent camouflage among driftwood and leaf litter. Like other Panaqolus species, it is a specialized wood-eater with a compact, armored body and strong sucker mouth adapted for rasping on submerged wood surfaces. This species is relatively small compared to other Panaque relatives, making it a great addition to medium-sized aquariums.
Habitat and Distribution:
Native to Peru, the L351 Pleco is found in the upper Amazon Basin, particularly in areas with dense driftwood and submerged vegetation. It inhabits slow to moderate-flowing waters with soft, tannin-rich conditions created by decaying wood and leaf litter. This species thrives in warm, well-oxygenated water with plenty of submerged wood for grazing.
Size and Lifespan:
This species grows to about 5-6 inches (13-15 cm). With proper care, it can live for 10-12 years.
Diet and Behavior:
The Sachamama Pleco is an herbivore and wood grazer, relying heavily on driftwood in its diet. In the wild, it feeds on wood fiber, biofilm, and plant matter. In captivity, its diet should include a steady supply of soft driftwood, high-quality sinking veggie pellets, spirulina wafers, and blanched vegetables such as zucchini, cucumber, and sweet potato. It is a peaceful species that spends most of its time hiding among wood and rock structures, becoming more active at night.
Breeding and Reproduction:
Breeding Panaqolus species in captivity is possible but requires patience. They are cave spawners, with males guarding the eggs inside driftwood cavities or artificial caves. To encourage breeding, provide multiple hiding spots, maintain soft and slightly acidic water conditions, and offer a fiber-rich diet. Fry feed on wood and biofilm, supplemented with finely crushed algae-based foods.
Aquarium Care and Tank Requirements:
A minimum of 40 gallons is required for a single specimen, with a larger tank (55+ gallons) preferred for groups. Their ideal tank setup includes a soft sand or fine gravel substrate, multiple pieces of driftwood for feeding and shelter, moderate filtration with good oxygenation, gentle to moderate water flow, and subdued lighting to replicate their natural environment.
Ideal Tank Mates:
The L351 Sachamama Pleco is peaceful and does well in community tanks with other non-aggressive species. Suitable tank mates include Tetras, Corydoras, Rasboras, Dwarf Cichlids (Apistogramma and Ram Cichlids), Angelfish, and other small to medium-sized South American fish. Avoid highly aggressive or territorial plecos unless the tank is large enough to establish separate territories.
Difficulty Level:
Intermediate. They require a wood-based diet, stable water parameters, and plenty of hiding spots to thrive.
Water Parameters:
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Temperature: 76-82°F (24-28°C)
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pH: 6.0-7.2
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General Hardness (GH): 4-12 dGH
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Carbonate Hardness (KH): 2-8 dKH
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Ammonia: 0 ppm
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Nitrite: 0 ppm
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Nitrate: <20 ppm (regular water changes required)
Additional Information:
- Driftwood is essential for their digestive health, as they require wood fiber in their diet.
- High oxygen levels and clean water are necessary for long-term health.
- They are relatively small for a Panaqolus species, making them suitable for medium-sized aquariums.
The L351 Sachamama Pleco is a fascinating and unique species for aquarists who appreciate wood-eating plecos. With proper care, it will thrive and display its intricate patterns for many years.
