Snowball Pleco (L142) (Hemiancistrus sp.)
Fish in the family Loricariidae. Moderate care. Freshwater.
Quick facts
Scientific nameHemiancistrus sp.
FamilyLoricariidae
Also known asL142, Big White Spot Pleco, Hemiancistrus sp. L142
Care levelModerate
Reef safetyFreshwater
TemperamentSemi Aggressive (some territorial)
DietOmnivore (algae, biofilm, vegetables, some protein)
Adult size7 in
Minimum tank size55 gallons
Water parametersTemp 78-86°F, pH 6.0-7.4, GH 2-12 dGH
Appearance
Dark body with large round white spots; sometimes called the 'big-spot' snowball, distinct from the Hypancistrus snowball.
Difficulty and care for the Snowball Pleco (L142)
Moderate
Origin and habitat
South America (Rio Negro, Brazil)
Keeper notes
Territorial toward other plecos; provide caves and space.
Log Snowball Pleco (L142) in your reef tank
Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Snowball Pleco (L142) alongside everything else in your reef.