All fish / Loricariidae

L201 Pleco

Hypancistrus contradens

Also known as l201, l-201, orinoco angel pleco, snowflake pleco, white spotted hypancistrus, l201 snowball pleco, inspector pleco, L201, ヒパンキストルス・コントラデンス, 雪花异型

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A small suckermouth catfish with a dark brown to black body covered in white or cream spots, and pale edges on the dorsal and tail fins. It stays small enough for modest tanks and is popular for its striking pattern and peaceful nature.

Care at a glance

Care level

Moderate

Temperament

Peaceful

Adult size

11 cm

Temperature

25 to 30 °C

pH

5.5 to 7.5

Smallest tank

80 litres

Keep as

Single or a small group with plenty of caves

Diet

Omnivore: sinking pellets and wafers, frozen bloodworm, brine shrimp and mysis, some vegetables

Swims

Bottom of the tank

Lifespan

10 to 15 years

Water

Freshwater

Wild range

Venezuela (upper Orinoco and Ventuari basins)

Breeding

A cave spawner; the male guards the eggs and fry inside a cave until they are free swimming. Breeding is achievable in captivity with warm, clean, well oxygenated water and suitable caves.

Good to know

Several similar spotted Hypancistrus are sold under the L201 number, so true H. contradens can be hard to confirm. Needs strong flow and high oxygen, and males can squabble over caves.