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L200 Green Phantom Pleco
L200 Green Phantom Pleco
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L200 Green Phantom Pleco
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Hemiancistrus subviridis (L200) |
| Origin | Venezuela (Upper Rio Orinoco, especially Ventuari River rapids) |
| Max Size | ~15–20 cm (6–8″) |
| Temperature | 24–30 °C (75–86 °F) |
| pH & Hardness | pH 6.0–7.5; soft to moderately hard (up to ~12 °dH) |
| Water Flow & Oxygen | Fast-flowing, oxygen-rich; replicate river conditions with high current |
| Temperament | Peaceful but mildly territorial with other bottom dwellers |
| Aquarium Level | Bottom dweller; hides among rocks and caves |
| Diet | Omnivore: algae, vegetables, sinking protein-based foods |
Diet & Feeding Guide
The Green Phantom Pleco is an omnivorous bottom feeder, often grazing on algae but requiring supplemental vegetables and protein.
Feeding Habits
- Plant/Algal Matter: Algae wafers, spirulina pellets, blanched spinach, zucchini, cucumber, peas.
- Protein Foods: Bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia, and sinking carnivore pellets 2–3× per week.
Feeding Tips:
- Feed at night or when lights are low—naturally nocturnal.
- Ensure food reaches the bottom. Use weighted veggies or clips.
- Monitor body condition and adjust frequency as needed.
Aquarium Setup & Care
- Flow & Oxygen: Strong filtration and powerheads to mimic river rapids.
- Decor: Smooth rockwork, driftwood, and caves are essential for hiding and territorial zones.
- Substrate: Sand or smooth gravel preferred.
- Tank Size: Minimum 120 L (30+ gal); more for groups or adults.
- Water Quality: Excellent; do weekly 25–30% water changes with clean, warm water.
Behavior & Tank Mates
- Mostly peaceful, though can claim territory over favored hiding spots.
- Compatible with peaceful fish: tetras, hatchetfish, rainbowfish, and dwarf cichlids.
- Avoid mixing with aggressive or large plecos unless space is ample.
Breeding
L200 Green Phantom Plecos are cave spawners. Males guard clutches in rock crevices. Eggs hatch in 3–4 days; fry remain in the cave until yolk sac is absorbed (~10 days). Successful spawning in captivity is rare and requires excellent conditions and patience.
Summary
The L200 Green Phantom Pleco (Hemiancistrus subviridis) is a stunning, medium-sized pleco best suited to mature aquariums with fast, warm, and clean water. It thrives when given hiding spaces, a well-balanced diet, and tankmates that respect its territory.
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Dead on Arrival (DOA) Policy
In the rare case that your livestock arrives dead, we offer a fair and standard DOA policy.
To qualify for a credit, you must contact us within 2 hours of delivery. Claims made after this period will not be accepted.
When reporting a DOA, please provide a video and three clear photos of the fish in its unopened, sealed bag as originally packaged. Clear images are required for processing your claim.
Once approved, we will issue a credit for the fish (excluding shipping) toward a future purchase. If you wish to receive a replacement, shipping costs must be covered again, or we can hold the credit for a later order.
For any questions, please contact us via our booking form.