Plecos White Point L201 Hypancistrus Inspector

⚪ L201 Hypancistrus inspector – White Point Pleco Care Guide

The White Point Pleco (Hypancistrus inspector), also known by its L-number L201, is a small and striking Loricariid native to the Rio Orinoco region in Venezuela. This species is highly valued for its dark body covered in tiny, bright white or pale blue spots, which contrast beautifully in well-lit aquariums. Peaceful and shy by nature, the L201 is ideal for aquarists looking to add a visually unique and non-aggressive pleco to their collection.

🐟 Species Overview

• Scientific Name: Hypancistrus inspector

• Common Name: White Point Pleco, L201

• Origin: Upper Rio Orinoco, Venezuela

• Adult Size: 4–5 inches (10–12.5 cm)

• Lifespan: 8–10 years

• Temperament: Peaceful and shy

• Activity Level: Mostly nocturnal, active during feeding

🏡 Aquarium Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 20–30 gallons

• Substrate: Soft sand or fine gravel

• Décor:

  • Rock caves, driftwood, and shaded hiding spots

  • Dense plants or leaf litter for cover

• Lighting: Low to moderate (prefer shaded zones)

• Water Movement: Gentle to moderate flow

• Filtration: High-efficiency biological filtration; sensitive to poor water quality

💡 Like many Hypancistrus, L201 thrives in aquariums that simulate slow-moving, oxygen-rich blackwater environments.

💧 Water Parameters

• Temperature: 78–84°F (25.5–29°C)

• pH Range: 6.2–7.4

• Hardness: 2–10 dGH (soft water preferred)

• TDS: 100–200 ppm

• Water Changes: 30–40% weekly for optimal health and coloration

🧪 Consistency and cleanliness are key. This species is sensitive to ammonia and nitrate spikes.

🍽️ Diet & Feeding

The White Point Pleco is a carnivore-leaning omnivore, requiring a protein-rich diet supplemented with occasional vegetables.

• Staple Foods:

  • Sinking carnivore pellets

  • Protein-rich pleco wafers

• Protein Additions:

  • Frozen or live bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia

• Vegetable Matter (optional):

  • Light offerings of blanched zucchini or spinach

• Feeding Schedule: Once or twice daily in the evening or after lights out

⚠️ Not a true algae eater—does not consume large amounts of algae like some common plecos.

🤝 Compatibility & Tankmates

• Ideal Tankmates:

  • Peaceful tetras, rasboras, Apistogramma, Corydoras

  • Otocinclus, pencilfish, and other dwarf species

• Avoid:

  • Large, aggressive cichlids or competitive bottom dwellers

  • Boisterous fish that stress shy plecos

💡 Keeping L201 in low-stress, dim environments with calm tankmates allows it to show its best behavior and coloration.

🐣 Breeding Tips

Breeding Hypancistrus inspector in aquariums is achievable with proper setup and patience.

• Spawning Method: Cave spawner

• Sexual Dimorphism: Males have broader heads and more pronounced odontodes (spikes)

• Spawning Triggers:

  • Frequent water changes

  • Slight drops in temperature and increased protein feeding

• Egg Care:

  • Males guard the eggs inside caves until hatching

  • Fry can be fed baby brine shrimp or powdered carnivore food

📌 Use smooth-sided pleco caves with only one entrance to encourage spawning.

📝 Quick Care Summary

🔧 Expert Tips

• Keep multiple hiding spots to reduce stress and territorial disputes

• Use blackwater extract or Indian almond leaves for a more natural feel

• Feed at night when the pleco is most active

• Avoid large gravel or sharp décor that can damage delicate skin