L-144 SNOW WHITE SHORTFIN 3 INCH

Scientific Name: Ancistrus sp. “L144 Snow White SHORTFIN”
Common Name: Snow White SHORTFIN Bristlenose
L-Number: L144 (Snow White Variant)
Origin: Aquarium-developed strain; selectively bred from South American Ancistrus

Overview

The L144 Snow White SHORTFIN Pleco is a dazzling aquarium showpiece, combining the classic hardiness of the Bristlenose Pleco with a unique pure-white body and elegant, flowing fins. This variety does not exist in the wild—it is a product of careful, multi-generational selective breeding. While visually delicate, this pleco is just as robust and beginner-friendly as its ancestors. Its peaceful behavior, manageable size, and striking appearance make it a favorite among planted and display aquariums.

Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons (larger recommended for multiple specimens)

• Substrate: Sand or smooth gravel

• Décor:

  • Caves or pleco breeding tubes

  • Driftwood (optional for diet but good for hiding)

  • Live or artificial plants to create shaded areas

• Filtration: Efficient with low to moderate flow; sponge filters ideal for fry tanks

• Lighting: Low to moderate—avoid intense lighting to reduce stress

• Oxygenation: Moderate aeration recommended, especially in warm tanks

Due to their long, flowing fins, avoid sharp decorations or aggressive tankmates that may nip.

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 75–80°F (24–27°C)

• pH: 6.5–7.4 (neutral is ideal)

• Hardness: 4–12 dGH

• Maintenance:

  • 25–40% weekly water changes

  • Stable, clean water is essential for longfin health

  • Avoid high nitrate levels (>30 ppm)

Their long fins are sensitive to poor water quality, so consistent maintenance is key.

Diet and Feeding

• Diet Type: Omnivore with strong herbivorous tendencies

• Staple Foods:

  • Algae wafers

  • Spirulina pellets

  • Blanched vegetables (zucchini, cucumber, sweet potato, spinach)

• Protein Sources (2–3x per week):

  • Frozen bloodworms or brine shrimp

  • Repashy gel foods (e.g., “Bottom Scratcher” or “Soilent Green”)

Feed during low-light periods or shortly after lights-out to align with their natural feeding rhythm.

Behavior and Compatibility

• Temperament: Peaceful and non-aggressive

• Behavior:

  • Nocturnal grazer

  • Males may become mildly territorial during breeding

• Tankmates:

  • Great with tetras, rasboras, corydoras, livebearers, peaceful dwarf cichlids

  • Avoid fin-nippers like tiger barbs and fast-moving aggressive fish

They’re slow movers and should be housed with species that won’t outcompete them for food.

Breeding

• Breeding Level: Easy to moderate

• Setup:

  • One male and 1–2 females

  • Provide at least one breeding cave per male

• Spawning:

  • Female lays adhesive eggs inside a cave

  • Male guards and fans the eggs until hatching (5–7 days)

• Fry Care:

  • Start with powdered spirulina or crushed wafers

  • Maintain pristine water and gentle flow

SHORTfin fry can be slightly more delicate, so sponge filtration and extra aeration are recommended.

Health Considerations

• Common Issues:

  • Fin rot from poor water quality

  • Bloat from overfeeding protein or spoiled veggies

  • Stress due to bullying or fin-nipping

• Prevention:

  • Maintain clean water

  • Offer a balanced plant-based diet

  • Ensure gentle, respectful tankmates

The SHORTfins can be damaged by rough décor or aggressive fish—design the aquascape accordingly.

Quick Care Snapshot

Summary

The L144 Snow White SHORTFIN Pleco is a refined and elegant addition to peaceful aquariums. Though it has a delicate appearance, this fish is resilient and easy to care for with proper conditions. Its gentle nature, algae-grazing habits, and graceful fins make it a stunning centerpiece in both hobbyist and professional display tanks. Provide clean water, gentle tankmates, and a vegetable-rich diet, and it will reward you with beauty and charm for years.