L201 Snowball Pleco 5-6cm

L201 Snowball Pleco (Hypancistrus sp.)

A Striking and Manageable Pleco for Your Aquarium

The L201 Snowball Pleco, also known as the Orinoco Angel Pleco, is an eye-catching addition to any aquarium. With its deep black body covered in bold white spots, this pleco brings a unique look to both planted and nano tanks.

Natural Habitat & Behavior

• Native to the Upper Rio Orinoco in South America.
• Primarily nocturnal, but can become more active during the day once settled.
• Prefers tanks with driftwood, rocks, and caves for hiding.
• Unlike some other pleco species, it does not eat wood heavily but may graze on biofilm.

Ideal for Smaller Tanks

Unlike larger plecos like the Common Pleco or Trinidad Pleco, which grow over 18 inches, the Snowball Pleco stays much smaller, reaching only 5.5 to 6.3 inches (14-16 cm). This makes it a great option for tanks as small as 40 gallons, provided there is good filtration and plenty of hiding spaces.

Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 40 gallons
• Substrate: Sand or smooth gravel
• Hiding Places: Driftwood, caves, and rockwork for security
• Water Flow: Moderate to strong to replicate natural river currents
• Lighting: No special requirements, but appreciates dim lighting or shaded areas

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 22 - 30°C (72 - 86°F)
• pH: 5.0 - 7.5 (stable conditions are key)
• Hardness: 6 - 10 dKH

Feeding & Diet

The Snowball Pleco is an omnivore, meaning it needs a balanced diet of both vegetable and protein-based foods.

• Staple diet: High-quality sinking pellets, algae wafers, and veggie flakes.
• Fresh vegetables: Zucchini, cucumber, spinach, and shelled peas should be offered regularly.
• Protein sources: Bloodworms, brine shrimp, and other meaty foods are essential.
• Algae control: Not an effective algae eater, so don’t rely on it for tank cleaning.

Tankmates & Compatibility

• Peaceful and hardy, making it a great addition to most community aquariums.
• Best Tankmates: Mid-to-upper level fish like tetras, rasboras, and peaceful cichlids.
• Avoid: Other territorial plecos unless the tank is large with plenty of hiding spaces.
• Caution with Shrimp: Dwarf shrimp may be eaten, but larger shrimp (Amano, Vampire, etc.) are usually safe.

Breeding

Breeding in captivity is possible but challenging.

• Cave Spawner: Requires tight-fitting caves with only one entrance.
• Breeding Conditions: Warm, soft water with moderate to high flow.
• Spawning Behavior: Males guard the eggs until hatching.

Why Choose the Snowball Pleco?

✔ A stunning, peaceful, and hardy pleco that adds visual interest to your tank.
✔ Stays small and manageable, making it ideal for medium-sized aquariums.
✔ Won’t harm plants and helps clean up uneaten food.
✔ Has a bold yet peaceful personality, making it a favorite among aquarists.

If you’re looking for a low-maintenance pleco with a unique look, the Snowball Pleco is a fantastic choice!