Here’s a no-nonsense care guide for L128 Hemiancistrus sp., also known as the Blue Phantom Pleco—a stunning mid-sized pleco with shimmering blue-grey coloration and peaceful temperament.
L128 Blue Phantom Pleco Care Guide
Common Names:
-
Blue Phantom Pleco
-
L128 Pleco
Scientific Name: Hemiancistrus sp. (undescribed species)
Origin: Rio Orinoco, Venezuela
Size: 6–8 inches (15–20 cm)
Lifespan: 10–12 years
Temperament: Peaceful, semi-territorial with other bottom dwellers
Tank Setup
-
Tank Size: 55 gallons minimum for adults
-
Substrate: Sand or smooth gravel
-
Decor:
-
Rounded rocks, slate, and lots of caves
-
Some driftwood (for cover—not essential for diet)
-
Mimic riverbed structure with shaded zones
-
-
Plants: Plant-safe; prefers a mix of open space and cover
-
Lighting: Low to moderate
Water Parameters
-
Temperature: 77–86°F (25–30°C)
-
pH: 6.0–7.5
-
Hardness: Soft to moderately hard (3–12 dGH)
-
Filtration: Strong and oxygen-rich—these plecos need clean, well-aerated water
-
Water Changes: 30–50% weekly
Diet
-
Feeding Style: Omnivore
-
Staple Foods:
-
Sinking omnivore or carnivore pellets
-
Frozen or live foods (bloodworms, brine shrimp, mysis)
-
Blanched vegetables (zucchini, cucumber, sweet potato)
-
Occasional algae wafers
-
-
Feeding Frequency: 1–2 times per day
-
Note: Not a primary algae eater—don't rely on it for cleanup
Behavior & Tankmates
-
Activity: Nocturnal or low-light active
-
Temperament: Peaceful; will stake out territory around a cave
-
Good Tankmates:
-
Tetras, rasboras, peaceful cichlids, dwarf gouramis
-
Avoid: Large/aggressive fish, or other territorial plecos without space
-
-
Compatibility Tip: Ensure each bottom-dweller has its own hideout
Breeding
-
In Captivity: Rare, but possible
-
Spawning Type: Cave spawner
-
Requirements: Warm, soft water; heavily oxygenated flow
-
Male guards eggs; fry feed on biofilm, then fine fry food or baby brine shrimp
Care Tips
-
Needs high oxygen and clean water—consider extra surface agitation
-
Provide multiple caves or hiding spots to prevent aggression
-
Monitor feeding—can be slow to compete for food in community tanks
-
Their color can fade in stress—shade, stable water, and low stress = vibrant blue
Want this in a tank card layout or compared to L200 or L204 for visual ID purposes? I’ve got you.
