L200 Info Please

[benzjamin13]

Can anyone tell me about the Lemon Spot Pleco? I want to get some info before I get one.

 

[WyldFya]

L200
Scientific name(s): Baryancistrus demantoides, hemiancistrus subviridis.
Common name(s): Green phantom, yellow spot, lemon spot.
Diet: Omnivore, primarily needs vegetation.
Size: 8" SL, reports of them getting up to 12" though.
Parameters: 74-82dF, 6.4-7.2 pH.
Comments: These guys are beautiful plecs, and can become very large. They are not fast growers, and can be kept in groups easily. There are two species under this L number, both of which are valid. B. demantoides is the hi-fin variant.

 

[jconley]

Wyldfya..... at what size are they sexually mature? I have two: one is about 5" and I believe is male,the other is 4" and I'm not sure if it's a female or sub. male.

 

[WyldFya]

I haven't seen them start to act up any smaller than 6" SL. Try to get some pics of the two, particularly the side view, odontode growth, and underside shot.

 

[jconley]

The larger of the two is developing large odontodes and pectoral spines(he may be closer to 6", I'll measure when I go home) the other has nothing to speak of.

 

[WyldFya]

Is he 6" SL or TL?

 

[jconley]

Total length.

 

[benzjamin13]

Thanks for the info. I guess they wouldn't be safe with plants then. But that's good that they can be kept in a group.

 

[WyldFya]

Thanks for the info. I guess they wouldn't be safe with plants then. But that's good that they can be kept in a group.

Very few plecos will eat plant material. My 135 planted has had everything from commons to royals. Never once had a problem with them eating the plants.

 

[WyldFya]

Total length.

So your L200 is more like 4" SL, which means give them quite a bit longer, and they will become sexually mature.