Snowball Pleco

Hypancistrus inspector

CatfishAdvanced
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Species Details

Snowball Plecos are beautiful medium-sized plecos with distinctive white spots. More affordable than galaxy plecos but equally stunning in appearance.

Advanced Care Level

Basic Information

Size15-17 cm (6-7 inches)
TemperamentPeaceful
DietOmnivorous
Lifespan10-15 years
Tank Size200+ litres (50+ gallons)

Water Parameters

Temperature
25-29°C (77-84°F)
pH Level
6.5-7.5
Hardness
5-15 dGH

Tank Mate Recommendations

Based on 1 selected species

Current Selection:

Snowball Pleco
Fully Compatible Species
Compatible

Angelfish

Pterophyllum scalare

Cichlids
Size:15 cm tall, 20 cm long (6 inches tall, 8 inches long)
Care Level:Beginner
Temperament:Peaceful/Semi-aggressive
100%
Compatible

Tanganyikan Cichlids

Various Lamprologus, Julidochromis, Neolamprologus

Cichlids
Size:5-20 cm (2-8 inches)
Care Level:Intermediate
Temperament:Semi-aggressive
100%
Compatible

Guppies

Poecilia reticulata

Livebearers
Size:3-6 cm (1.2-2.4 inches)
Care Level:Beginner
Temperament:Peaceful
100%
Compatible

Tetras

Various Tetra species

Characins
Size:2.5-7.5 cm (1-3 inches)
Care Level:Beginner
Temperament:Peaceful
100%
Compatible

Pleco Catfish

Various Hypostomus, Pterygoplichthys species

Catfish
Size:15-45 cm (6-18 inches)
Care Level:Intermediate
Temperament:Peaceful but territorial
100%
Compatible

Barbs

Various Barbus, Puntius species

Cyprinids
Size:5-15 cm (2-6 inches)
Care Level:Beginner
Temperament:Peaceful/Semi-aggressive
100%

💡 Tank Mate Tips

• Consider adult size when planning tank space

• Research specific water parameter requirements

• Introduce new fish gradually to reduce stress

• Monitor behavior closely during the first weeks

Quick Facts

Beautiful small pleco with white spots on dark body

Peaceful temperament suitable for communities

Reaches 15-17 cm (6-7 inches)

Expensive but more available than galaxy plecos

Requires caves and strong filtration

Prefers protein-rich diet

More active than many other plecos

Captive breeding success increasing availability

Popular among pleco collectors

Hardy once established

Compatibility Summary

Compatible Species6
Requires Caution2
View full compatibility analysis →

Care Requirements

Tank Size200+ litres (50+ gallons)
Temperature25-29°C (77-84°F)
pH6.5-7.5
Hardness5-15 dGH

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