Green Phantom Pleco (Hemiancistrus subviridis (L200)) is a intermediate-level freshwater fish that needs at least 55 gallons and 76-84°F. A dark-green pleco with pale spots, known by the trade code L200. It stays smaller than a common pleco but likes warm, oxygen-rich water, caves, and wood to graze on.
Care facts at a glance
| Scientific name | Hemiancistrus subviridis (L200) |
|---|---|
| Family | Loricariidae |
| Origin | Brazil, Amazon basin |
| Adult size | 5-7 in |
| Minimum tank | 55 gallons |
| Temperature | 76-84°F |
| pH | 6.0-7.5 |
| Temperament | Peaceful, may defend caves |
| Social behavior | Solitary or small groups in big tanks |
| Swim level | Bottom |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Diet | Omnivore: sinking pellets, vegetables, frozen foods, driftwood to rasp |
| Typical lifespan | 10+ years |
Quick tips
- Provide caves and driftwood.
- Keep the water warm, clean and well oxygenated.
- Do not mix it up with larger common plecos; check the exact fish.
San Diego water
Captive-bred stock usually adapts to San Diego tap water with slow acclimation. For best color and health, many keepers blend tap with RO/DI water. Learn the numbers in our San Diego tap water guide.
Before you buy
Make sure your tank is cycled (how to cycle a tank), check your numbers with the water testing guide, and use the compatibility guide to check tankmates. These are general ranges; individual fish and local water vary.
Find it at Pet Zone
Pet Zone Tropical Fish is a San Diego aquarium store with two locations. Stock changes daily, so call ahead if you are after a specific species or plant. Shop online at petzonesd.com.
4160 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
(858) 987-0309
Open daily, 10am-6pm
Aquascaping, planted tanks
4266 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92105
(619) 283-1812
Closed Monday; Tue-Fri 10:30am-6pm, Sat 11am-6pm, Sun 11am-4pm
Monster fish, koi