Species profile
L200 Green Phantom Pleco
Hemiancistrus subviridis
Semi aggressive
Moderate care
250 L minimum aquarium
15–18 cm adult size
Bottom
Can be kept singly
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Species-specific H. subviridis profile. The L200 trade label is also used for similar green phantom plecos, so specimen identity matters.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
26–30 °C
pH
6–7.5
GH
2–12 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
High
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Can be kept singly
Tank zone
Bottom
Territory level
Moderate
Predation risk
None
Bioload factor
2.5
Rock-dwelling loricariid. Adults may defend preferred caves/rock crevices from similar plecos; strong current, high dissolved oxygen and very clean water are important.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Yes
Shrimp safe
No / caution
Snail safe
Yes
Cave breeder
Yes
Digs substrate
No
Jump risk
Low
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
Not yet documented
Diet type
Omnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
250 L
Minimum footprint
120 × 45 cm
Accepted scientific name
Hemiancistrus subviridis
Alternative names
L200 Green Phantom Pleco, Green Phantom Pleco, Hemiancistrus subviridis, L200
Native range
Upper Orinoco River basin in Venezuela and Colombia.
Natural habitat
Fast-flowing water among granite rocks, cracks and interstitial spaces. Recreate with strong circulation, high oxygen and multiple rock/cave refuges.
Diet & feeding
Grazer/omnivore. Offer quality sinking loricariid foods, vegetable matter and biofilm/algae grazing plus controlled invertebrate/protein foods.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Mature males generally develop stronger odontodes and broader head/pectoral structures; females are typically fuller-bodied.
Breeding
Cave/crevice spawner. Males guard a chosen spawning site and brood; provide several suitably sized caves and excellent oxygenation.