L201 Snowball Pleco

L201 Snowball Plecos, also known as Orinoco Angel Plecos or Hypancistrus inspector, are sought-after freshwater fish due to their striking appearance. They're native to the Orinoco River basin in Venezuela. These fish are adorned with a black body and white spots that resemble snowballs, hence their name.

Snowball Plecos thrive in soft, acidic water, with a pH value ideally between 6.0 and 7.0. The water hardness should be between 2 and 25 dH. They prefer slightly cooler temperatures than some tropical fish, with an optimal range between 73 and 81°F (23 to 27°C).

Snowball Plecos are a small to medium-sized fish, typically reaching up to 5.5 inches in length. They're bottom dwellers and need ample hiding places in the tank. Caves, driftwood, and other dark spaces are ideal, as they mimic their natural habitat. Since they are not particularly active swimmers, a 30-gallon tank should be sufficient for one Pleco.

In terms of diet, Snowball Plecos are omnivorous but lean towards carnivory. High-quality sinking pellets should form the basis of their diet, supplemented with live or frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia. Occasionally, they will also eat plant matter or algae.

Snowball Plecos are generally peaceful and can be kept with a variety of tank mates of similar size and temperament. However, they can be territorial, especially with other Plecos, so it's important to provide enough hiding spots if you have more than one.

Maintaining water quality is crucial, so regular water changes (typically once a week) are required. Poor water conditions can lead to stress and health issues.

In summary, with their eye-catching appearance and relatively peaceful nature, L201 Snowball Plecos can make a fantastic addition to many freshwater aquariums, provided their specific care needs are met.