Blue Phantom Pleco (Hemiancistrus sp. L128) Care Guide
A beautiful pleco from Venezuela's Rio Orinoco drainage with a blue-grey body covered in small white to light blue spots. Prefers fast-flowing, well-oxygenated water and a diet rich in protein.
Overview
Hemiancistrus sp. L128 is a species in the family Loricariidae. A beautiful pleco from Venezuela's Rio Orinoco drainage with a blue-grey body covered in small white to light blue spots. Prefers fast-flowing, well-oxygenated water and a diet rich in protein. Less commonly available than its green cousin (L200), making it highly sought-after by pleco enthusiasts.
Taxonomy
- Family: Loricariidae
- Genus: Hemiancistrus
- Scientific name: Hemiancistrus sp. L128
- Other names: L128, Hemiancistrus sp.
- Origin: South America
Habitat
Endemic to the Rio Orinoco basin of Venezuela and Colombia, particularly the Rio Ventuari. Inhabits fast-flowing rocky stretches with clear, warm, well-oxygenated water. Traded under the L-number L128; an omnivore that grazes biofilm and accepts vegetable and protein foods.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 180 L
- Temperature: 24-28 °C
- pH: 5.5-7
- GH: 2-12 °dGH
- Adult size: 15-18 cm
- Lifespan: 8-12 years
- Difficulty: intermediate
Diet
Classified as omnivore. Recommended feeding frequency: 1x daily. In captivity, offer a varied diet appropriate to the species — quality prepared foods supplemented with frozen or live items of suitable size.
Compatibility
- Temperament: peaceful
- Swimming level: bottom
- Compatible tank mates: Corydoras, Tetras, Angelfish, Discus, Peaceful cichlids
- Avoid with: Other territorial plecos, Aggressive bottom-dwellers
Breeding
- Breeding strategy: cave-spawner
- Breeding difficulty: advanced