Snow Ball Pleco L201

SKU

11383

Price

$140.00incl GST

or 4 interest free payments of $35.00incl GST with

Availability

Out of stock

The L201 Pleco, also known as the Orinoco Angel Pleco or Snowball Pleco, is a freshwater catfish from the Hypancistrus genus. It is a popular species among aquarium enthusiasts due to its striking black body with white or yellowish spots.

Scientific Classification

  • Scientific Name: Hypancistrus sp. (L201)
  • Common Names: Orinoco Angel Pleco, Snowball Pleco
  • L-number: L201
  • Family: Loricariidae

Natural Habitat

  • Origin: Native to the Orinoco River basin in Venezuela and Colombia.
  • Water Conditions: Prefers fast-flowing, oxygen-rich waters with rocky substrates.

Appearance

  • Coloration: Dark black or brown body with distinct white or yellowish spots.
  • Size: Typically grows up to 5-6 inches (12-15 cm) in captivity.
  • Body Shape: Flat ventral side with a sucker mouth, characteristic of plecos.

Aquarium Requirements

  • Tank Size: Minimum 30 gallons for a single adult, larger for groups.
  • Water Temperature: 77-86°F (25-30°C)
  • pH Level: 6.0-7.5
  • Water Hardness: Soft to moderate.
  • Filtration: Requires a strong filter and good water circulation.
  • Décor: Provide plenty of hiding spots like caves, driftwood, and rocks.

Diet & Feeding

  • Diet Type: Omnivore, but leans more toward a carnivorous diet.
  • Food Preferences:
    • Protein-rich foods: Bloodworms, brine shrimp, and sinking carnivore pellets.
    • Vegetation: Occasional blanched vegetables like zucchini and cucumber.
    • Algae: Not a major algae eater compared to other pleco species.

Behavior & Compatibility

  • Temperament: Generally peaceful, but may be territorial with its own species or other bottom-dwellers.
  • Tank Mates:
    • Compatible with peaceful community fish (tetras, rasboras, corydoras).
    • Avoid aggressive or fin-nipping species.
    • Best kept alone or in a small group if the tank is large enough.

Breeding

  • Difficulty: Moderate to difficult.
  • Breeding Setup:
    • Requires caves for spawning.
    • Best bred in a separate breeding tank with strong water flow.
    • Males guard the eggs until they hatch.
  • Fry Care: Feed with baby brine shrimp and crushed pellets.

Fun Fact

The L201 Pleco is often confused with Hypancistrus contradens (L102), but L201 has smaller and more densely packed white spots.

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