Mustard Spot Peckoltia (L141) Care Guide
Peckoltia snethlageae, now placed in Ancistomus, is a larger Tapajos-basin loricariid catfish with bold dark markings on a yellow body.
Overview
Peckoltia snethlageae was described by Steindachner in 1911 and is now placed in the genus Ancistomus (Ancistomus snethlageae). Known in the hobby as the Mustard Spot pleco, it is a larger loricariid catfish reaching about 22 cm in total length, with a yellowish body and bold dark markings.
Taxonomy
- Family: Loricariidae
- Scientific name: Peckoltia snethlageae
- Current placement: Ancistomus snethlageae (Steindachner, 1911)
- Trade designations: L141, Mustard Spot Pleco
Habitat
FishBase records the species from the Tapajós River basin in Brazil. It is a freshwater, demersal species of tropical climates, associated with rocky and wood-rich habitats.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 200 L
- Temperature: 24-28 degrees Celsius (75-82 degrees Fahrenheit)
- pH: 6.0-7.5
- GH: 2-12 dGH
- Water flow: moderate
- Lifespan: 8-12 years
Because it grows larger than many L-numbers, provide spacious cover with caves and driftwood and clean, oxygenated water.
Diet
The species is omnivorous, accepting sinking prepared foods, vegetable matter and occasional protein items. It is nocturnal and feeds mainly at night.
Compatibility
It is generally peaceful but can be semi-territorial toward other bottom dwellers, so give individual hiding places. Calm mid-water fish such as tetras and Corydoras are suitable; avoid aggressive or strongly territorial plecos.
Breeding
As a cave-spawning loricariid, breeding is considered advanced.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Endangered (assessed 7 November 2018).