Snowball Pleco Variant L111

The Snowball Pleco Variant (L111) is a distinctive population of the Snowball Pleco complex from the upper Rio Negro basin, characterised by larger, more irregularly shaped white spots on a deep black background compared to the tighter, more uniform spotting of the nominotypical Snowball. This variation in spotting pattern makes L111 prized by collectors who appreciate the diversity within this popular L-number group.

Like all Snowball Plecos, L111 originates from the blackwater Rio Negro and benefits from soft, slightly acidic, tannin-rich water conditions. It is an omnivore that grazes on algae and biofilm while accepting a variety of prepared foods including algae wafers, sinking pellets, blanched vegetables, driftwood, and frozen protein supplements. Tannin additions from Indian almond leaves or driftwood improve comfort and colouration.

L111 can be semi-aggressive toward conspecifics and other Hypancistrus species competing for caves. Best kept as a solitary specimen or in a well-matched male-female pair in a dedicated aquarium. Compatible with Rio Negro community species including cardinal tetras, black water dwarf cichlids, and pencilfish. A striking and rewarding species for the dedicated L-number enthusiast.

Water: pH 5.5–7.0, temperature 25–29°C, GH 1–8, KH 0–4; soft blackwater with tannins preferred. Tank: 150 L minimum; driftwood, leaf litter, caves, moderate flow. Feeding: Omnivore; algae wafers, sinking pellets, blanched veg, driftwood, frozen bloodworm. Breeding: Cave spawner; male guards eggs; moderately achievable in captivity with blackwater conditioning. Compatibility: Semi-aggressive with conspecifics; peaceful with blackwater Rio Negro community species.