L201 Snowflake Pleco (Hypancistrus inspector)

Hypancistrus inspector (L201), the Snowflake Pleco, is a gorgeous cave-dwelling pleco from the Orinoco River in Venezuela, characterized by a deep black body covered in irregularly shaped white blotches whose irregular, asymmetrical pattern varies between individuals and genuinely resembles a snowflake pattern. Unlike many plecos, it is primarily carnivorous and should be fed protein-rich foods such as frozen bloodworm, meatworm, and sinking carnivore pellets rather than primarily vegetable matter. A secretive species that appreciates numerous caves and hiding spots.

House singly or as a mated pair in an aquarium (minimum 150 L) with multiple smooth caves, driftwood, and moderate flow. Maintain warm, soft to moderately hard water (pH 6.0–7.5, GH 2–10) at 26–30°C with good oxygenation. Feed primarily carnivore protein foods: frozen bloodworm, shrimp, meatworm, sinking carnivore pellets — supplement occasionally with algae wafers. Provide one cave per fish. Weekly 25–30% water changes.