Flash Pleco

Panaqolus albomaculatus

CatfishBeginner
Check CompatibilityBuild Tank

Species Details

Flash Plecos are small, attractive catfish with white spots on dark bodies. They are excellent community fish and provide natural algae control.

Beginner Care Level

Basic Information

Size10-12 cm (4-5 inches)
TemperamentPeaceful
DietHerbivorous
Lifespan8-10 years
Tank Size150+ litres (40+ gallons)

Water Parameters

Temperature
24-28°C (75-82°F)
pH Level
6.5-7.5
Hardness
5-15 dGH

Tank Mate Recommendations

Based on 1 selected species

Current Selection:

Flash Pleco
Fully Compatible Species
Compatible

Angelfish

Pterophyllum scalare

Cichlids
Size:15 cm tall, 20 cm long (6 inches tall, 8 inches long)
Care Level:Beginner
Temperament:Peaceful/Semi-aggressive
100%
Compatible

Tanganyikan Cichlids

Various Lamprologus, Julidochromis, Neolamprologus

Cichlids
Size:5-20 cm (2-8 inches)
Care Level:Intermediate
Temperament:Semi-aggressive
100%
Compatible

Guppies

Poecilia reticulata

Livebearers
Size:3-6 cm (1.2-2.4 inches)
Care Level:Beginner
Temperament:Peaceful
100%
Compatible

Tetras

Various Tetra species

Characins
Size:2.5-7.5 cm (1-3 inches)
Care Level:Beginner
Temperament:Peaceful
100%
Compatible

Pleco Catfish

Various Hypostomus, Pterygoplichthys species

Catfish
Size:15-45 cm (6-18 inches)
Care Level:Intermediate
Temperament:Peaceful but territorial
100%
Compatible

Barbs

Various Barbus, Puntius species

Cyprinids
Size:5-15 cm (2-6 inches)
Care Level:Beginner
Temperament:Peaceful/Semi-aggressive
100%

💡 Tank Mate Tips

• Consider adult size when planning tank space

• Research specific water parameter requirements

• Introduce new fish gradually to reduce stress

• Monitor behavior closely during the first weeks

Quick Facts

Small pleco with distinctive white spots

Peaceful and community-friendly

Primarily wood-eating diet

Requires driftwood and caves

More affordable than rare species

Good algae control

Active during evening hours

Hardy and beginner-friendly

Easy to breed in captivity

Popular starter pleco

Compatibility Summary

Compatible Species6
Requires Caution2
View full compatibility analysis →

Care Requirements

Tank Size150+ litres (40+ gallons)
Temperature24-28°C (75-82°F)
pH6.5-7.5
Hardness5-15 dGH

Related Actions

Browse All Species
Explore other freshwater fish
Shop Products
Find supplies for this species