Snowball Pleco L201 Care Guide
Hypancistrus contradens (traded as L201) is a small loricariid catfish from the Orinoco basin in Venezuela, requiring caves and clean flowing water.
Overview
Hypancistrus contradens is a small loricariid catfish described by Armbruster, Lujan and Taphorn in 2007. It is endemic to Venezuela, where it occurs in the Orinoco River. In the aquarium trade it is commonly sold under the L-number L201 and the name Snowball pleco, though the L201 designation and H. contradens are sometimes treated as possibly distinct forms.
Taxonomy
- Family: Loricariidae
- Genus: Hypancistrus
- Scientific name: Hypancistrus contradens
- Described by: Armbruster, Lujan & Taphorn, 2007
- Trade designation: L201
Habitat
The species is a freshwater, bottom-dwelling fish of the Orinoco River system in Venezuela. Like other Hypancistrus, it is associated with rocky habitat and benefits from driftwood, caves and clean, well-oxygenated water.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 120 L
- Temperature: 24-28 °C (75-82 °F)
- pH: 5.5-7.0
- GH: 1-10 °dGH
- Lifespan: 8-12 years
Diet
Hypancistrus are primarily carnivorous rather than algae-eaters; PlanetCatfish notes that individuals seen grazing on glass are typically seeking small invertebrates rather than feeding on algae. A diet based on meaty sinking foods is appropriate.
Compatibility
A peaceful, bottom-dwelling species. It is reportedly shy, often feeding after lights-out. Suitable companions include peaceful midwater fishes such as tetras and corydoras; aggressive or strongly territorial plecos are best avoided.
Breeding
Like other Hypancistrus, it is a cave-spawner with male brood care. PlanetCatfish reports that a breeding group of L201 adults with fry can be maintained in a relatively small tank of about 77 L.