Species profile
L204 Flash Pleco
Panaqolus albivermis
Peaceful
Moderate care
120 L minimum aquarium
8–12 cm adult size
Bottom
Can be kept singly
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
L204 was formally described as Panaqolus albivermis in 2013; retain the L-number as an alternative/trade identifier.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
24–28 °C
pH
6–7.5
GH
2–15 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Moderate
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Can be kept singly
Tank zone
Bottom
Territory level
Moderate
Predation risk
None
Bioload factor
1.5
Generally peaceful but adults may defend caves and feeding territories.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Yes
Shrimp safe
Yes
Snail safe
Yes
Cave breeder
Yes
Digs substrate
No
Jump risk
Low
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
Not yet documented
Diet type
Herbivore
Minimum aquarium volume
120 L
Minimum footprint
80 × 40 cm
Accepted scientific name
Panaqolus albivermis
Alternative names
Flash Pleco, L204
Native range
San Alejandro River, upper Ucayali watershed, central Peru.
Natural habitat
Provide extensive driftwood, caves, moderate current and consistently clean oxygenated water.
Diet & feeding
Wood-associated Panaqolus: provide driftwood continuously plus vegetable-rich sinking foods; add modest protein rather than a carnivore-heavy diet.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Mature males develop stronger odontodes and broader heads.
Breeding
Male cave-spawner; suitable tight caves and excellent water quality support captive breeding.