L328 Plane Plecostomus

L328 is a highly flattened plane pleco with a dark body, broad fins and subtle pale spotting or mottling. Its low profile is adapted to clinging to rock in swift current.

This profile is identified by L328 and the current assignment Pseudolithoxus sp. (L328). Do not merge it with a visually similar L-number without matching collection locality and diagnostic features. The L-number remains the primary stable identifier because the form has not been formally described.

Mature males are expected to develop a broader head and stronger cheek and pectoral odontodes. Females become fuller through the abdomen, but form-specific sexing information remains limited.

Provide intense oxygenation, brisk current, clean rock surfaces and many narrow crevices. Strong filtration and careful removal of trapped organic waste are essential.

Secretive and generally peaceful toward midwater fish, but territorial with similar flattened plecos. It often feeds most confidently after lights dim.

Can be maintained in a small group when every adult has a separate cave and feeding area.

Males defend tight caves but serious conflict is limited when the aquarium provides abundant hardscape.

Use peaceful current-loving companions and avoid bulky or aggressive bottom fish. Every plane pleco requires a separate refuge and feeding area.

Maintain stable, clean, oxygen-rich freshwater. Strong filtration and gas exchange are essential because warm water, protein-rich feeding, and loricariid waste can reduce oxygen and impair water quality.

Feed a mixed aufwuchs diet with quality sinking foods, algae or vegetable matter and small invertebrate foods. Observe shy individuals to confirm they are eating.

Feed after lights dim and place food near every occupied cave. Confirm that subordinate fish eat, and remove rich leftovers before they affect water quality.

Reliable captive-breeding information for this coded form is limited. It is likely a male-guarded crevice spawner, but repeatable methods are not established.