Green Phantom Pleco: Easy Care Guide (Tips & Tricks)

The Green Phantom Pleco (Green Phantom Plecostomus), or Hemiancistrus Subviridis, is a species of Pleco prized for its distinctive colored skin and relatively peaceful nature. It’s temperament makes it a go-to choice for aquarists wanting a stunning Pleco that won't cause them too much trouble. The green variety of Phantom Pleco is indigenous to South America in the Rio Orinoco, one of South America's largest rivers. 

This particular fish is unique in appearance, featuring a large dorsal fin and lime green body unique to the Pleco. Unlike other Pleco, such as the Bristlenose, the Green Phantom Pleco lacks bristles. However, what it lacks in facial hair, it makes up for in looks and appeal, with Aquarists seeking out this popular Pleco. The Green Phantom Pleco can be found in aquariums and fish stores globally, with a good supply. The Pleco is still rare and far less common than other species.

This article will cover the Green Phantom Pleco, outlining how to care for one, how to breed them, the best tank mates to keep with them, and more. 

How to Care for a Green Phantom Pleco?

The Green Phantom Pleco is a tropical fish that must be housed in a large tank of over 130 liters that can accommodate a fish that can grow 5-8 inches long. The fish must be kept in moderately warm water, with a tank temperature between 22 and 25 degrees. Similarly, as with all fish, constant upkeep of the tank to maintain its natural environment must be kept to ensure that the fish lives a long and healthy life with plenty of plants and shrubbery. 

As with most Plecos, it is advised to provide adequate hiding places for the fish and plenty of driftwood for the Green Phantom to chew on due to the fish's tendency to feed on wood. As per guidelines, soak your wood before placing it in the tank to ensure that tannins are released. Likewise, these fish will need plenty of oxygen within the tank, strong water currents, and good filtration options due to feces. 

These Plecos are fairly solitary creatures. The species is laidback with other fish, suitable for a community tank. However, as mentioned above, an acutely sized tank is needed to support the growth of Green Phantoms, as a crowded tank can cause fish stress due to its territorial nature.

On this note, Plecos can become territorial and square off against one another (especially males), making it critical that you provide enough space for each fish in terms of territory and hiding places so that they can mark their territory.

Regarding food, Plecos can be fed a mixture of vegetarian-based algae wafers, cucumbers, and even bloodworm/brine shrimp to supplement their diets. We've found that these Phantom plecos are often shy when young, especially during feeding time, liking to stick to isolated areas that provide them with protection. Therefore, feeding them and positioning food accurately in their hiding places is worth going the extra mile. These fish feed more in the dark, something to keep in mind when giving them food.

What is the Phantom Green Pleco Size?

At full adult maturity, the Green Phantom can grow to a considerable size of 5-8 inches in length. Therefore, keeping this fish in a large tank that can accommodate it is advised. Far too often, owners purchase catfish species in their small adolescent size with limited knowledge of how large Plecos can grow, returning them once they outgrow their tank. For the fish's safety and stress levels, you should always make sure to have adequate conditions in place to accommodate them.

Top 5 Green Phantom Pleco Tank Mates

The Green Phantom Pleco is a community fish and can thus be kept with various fish species. Below, we list, not exhaustively, the multiple fish you can keep your Pleco with. 

1. Mollies 

Molly's (Poecilia) are fairly laid-back fish, one of the most popular breeds aquarists and fishkeepers keep in their aquariums. These fish are known for their unique look and color variations; Molliy's are favored for their breeding prospects and good temperament around other fish, which make them the perfect fish to keep around Plecos. These fish can live alone or in shoals and are known to interbreed with the likes of Guppy's. Despite their peaceful nature, you should take care when feeding Molly around Green Phantom Plecos due to the latter fishes' often territorial tendencies, as Molly's do feed on the tank floor. 

2. Platy's 

Much like Molly's, the Platy (Xiphophorus) is known for its peaceful nature and color profile variation, making it a popular choice for those starting the hobby. The Platy works well with Plecos, but care must be taken when feeding them. It is worth mentioning during breeding, these fish will get frenzied, aggravating potential tank mates such as Plecos, who may unintentionally get caught up in action. Thus, as mentioned, ensure that there are plenty of hiding places.

3. Guppy's

Guppy fish (Poecilia reticulata) are very popular for new Aquarists to house in their tanks. Due to their small size, they are suitable for several aquarium sizes and are a popular choice for hobbyists of all experience levels. What guppies lack in size is that they more than makeup for breeding potential. The fish mating like wildfire often produces beautiful color variations that are sought after by some hobbyists. Guppy's are great to have with your Pleco's at an early stage, but be warned, once your Pleco grows, these fish may become a snack for it due to their small size.

4. Tetra 

Tetras are peaceful fish with huge variations in their species, with hundreds of different types of fish. These fish are excellent tank mates for your Pleco, sticking to their lane during feeding time and when they are active in the tank. It is worth mentioning that these fish may come under the food radar for large Phantom Green Plecos who want an extra snack. Nevertheless, they are quick fish that often outmaneuver fish who want to put them on the dinner menu.

5. Cory Catfish

Cory Catfish (Corydoras) are favored freshwater catfish that come in a variety of different colors, from the gritty Salt and Pepper Cory to the unique Abino Cory. These fish are very docile and feed on fish flakes and other foods such as algae wafers. The Cory Catfish generally goes about its own business. Still, there is potential for the adorable fish to wander too close to a Pleco's lair, which may spike its territorial nature. Nevertheless, the Cory Catfish is an excellent catfish with Pleco's.

Other catfish may work well with a Green Phantom, provided they have adequate space and hiding places. Following this criterion, you may house other Pleco and Catfish, such as the Upside-down Catfish and the Cuckoo Catfish. Still, care is needed to create a sustainable ecosystem. It is worth pairing these Pleco with other fish that suit fast-flowing water to mimic its natural habitat. Again, we caution against pairing Green Phanom Plecos with larger shrimps, such as the Bamboo Shrimp, as the latter can become noticeably hostile. It is worth pairing these Green Phantom Pleco with other fish that suit fast-flowing water to mimic its natural habitat.

How to Breed Green Phantom Plecostomus

The Phantom Green Pleco can be bred within its species. Although not well documented, this fish will breed within large cave-like environments that are well sheltered and away from other fish. Thus, for breeding, you should provide adequate shelter for these fish that provide dim areas for the fish to breed. After spawning, the Male will guard around forty yellow-colored eggs until they hatch within a few days.

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