Snowball Pleco (L102)

The snowball pleco is the true species behind the name "snowball", given for its white spots on a black background. It grows larger than L201, which is sold under the same name (up to 15 cm), and there is always a dark band along the edge of its dorsal fin. Spot size varies greatly from fish to fish; some are finely spotted, others almost black.

It was described in 2002 from specimens collected in the Casiquiare. It comes from the soft, acidic waters of the Rio Negro and is one of the largest Hypancistrus species.

• At least 150 liters for 1–3 fish, with a separate cave for each.
• Soft, slightly acidic water; 26–28°C.
• Strong aeration, moderate to strong flow, a 30% water change every week.

Mainly carnivorous. Make bloodworms, mysis, pieces of shrimp and protein-rich sinking tablets the staple; a small amount of vegetable tablets can also be given.

Peaceful toward other species and nocturnal. Males of its own kind squabble over caves.

Good companions: Blackwater species: cardinal tetras, apistogramma, discus, corydoras.

Avoid: Other Hypancistrus species (hybridization), species that need hard, alkaline water, large territorial plecos.