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Freshwater fishL-501 Black Phantasm Pleco
L-501 Black Phantasm Pleco
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The Black Phantasm Pleco, with an equally fantastic scientific name, is seldom seen in the aquarium hobby. These black plecos with some chocolate marbling sport a high-profile body and big dorsal fin. Hardy and adaptable to most aquariums.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Hypancistrus sp. L-501 |
| Origin | Rio Tapajós basin, Brazil |
| Care Level | Easy to moderate |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Adult Size | Up to 4–5" |
| Lifespan | 10+ years |
| Diet | Omnivore (meaty sinking foods) |
| Water Temperature | 78–84°F |
| pH | 6.0–7.5 |
| Group Size | Single, or several with a cave each |
| Shipping Size | Approx. 3–5" |
Care Guide
Tank setup: Give them caves, driftwood, good current and good filtration. They are most active at night.
Feeding: Feed sinking pellets once a day, ideally in the evening when they are most active. They also enjoy frozen foods like bloodworms and shrimp.
Tankmates: They are peaceful and get along with most community fish. Males may squabble over caves, so give each one its own hiding spot.
Good to know: Unlike many plecos, black phantasms eat mostly meaty foods rather than algae, and they leave plants alone.
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