Snowball Pleco (L201) (Hypancistrus inspector) is a intermediate-level freshwater fish that needs at least 30 gallons and 76-84°F. A small, white-spotted pleco that stays compact and lives in caves. It likes warm, clean, well-oxygenated water, so it suits an established tank rather than a first aquarium.
Care facts at a glance
| Scientific name | Hypancistrus inspector |
|---|---|
| Family | Loricariidae |
| Origin | South America |
| Adult size | 3.5-4 in |
| Minimum tank | 30 gallons |
| Temperature | 76-84°F |
| pH | 6.0-7.5 |
| Temperament | Peaceful, territorial around caves |
| Social behavior | Pair or small group |
| Swim level | Bottom |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Diet | Omnivore leaning carnivore: sinking pellets, frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, some vegetables |
| Typical lifespan | 5-10 years |
Quick tips
- Provide several caves, one per fish.
- Keep water warm, clean and well oxygenated.
- Feed meaty sinking foods; do not rely on algae alone.
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