All fish / Loricariidae

Phantom Pleco

Hypancistrus phantasma

Also known as l385, phantom hypancistrus, l-385, phantasma pleco

This small pleco has a dark body covered in fine white spots, and it was described from the Rio Negro in 2016 after being traded as L385. Keepers like it because it stays small, does little damage to plants and suits planted or blackwater-style aquariums.

Care at a glance

Care level

Moderate

Temperament

Peaceful

Adult size

10 cm

Temperature

26 to 30 °C

pH

5.5 to 7

Smallest tank

100 litres

Keep as

Single or a small group with plenty of caves

Diet

Omnivore: sinking pellets, frozen bloodworm, brine shrimp and some vegetable matter

Swims

Bottom of the tank

Lifespan

10 to 15 years

Water

Freshwater

Wild range

Brazil (upper Rio Negro basin)

Breeding

It spawns in caves, and the male guards the eggs until the fry are free-swimming. It has been bred in captivity when the water is soft, warm and well oxygenated, but it is less often bred than zebra-type Hypancistrus.

Good to know

It needs clean, well-oxygenated water with a good current, and wild-caught fish can be expensive. It looks similar to other spotted Hypancistrus, so buy from sellers who label their fish by L-number.