Green phantom pleco facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Green phantom pleco
Scientific classification

The Hemiancistrus subviridis, also known as the green phantom pleco, is a type of armored catfish. It belongs to the Loricariidae family. You can usually find this fish in Venezuela.

It lives in the Orinoco and Casiquiare river systems. These fish like to hang out among granite rocks in fast-flowing water. The green phantom pleco can grow up to about 15 cm (almost 6 inches) long.

About the Green Phantom Pleco

The green phantom pleco is a fascinating fish. It's called "armored" because it has hard plates on its body. These plates act like a suit of armor. This helps protect it from predators.

This fish is also known by a special code: L-200. This "L-number" helps fish keepers identify different types of plecos. Another fish, Baryancistrus demantoides, also shares the L-200 number. This is because they look very similar. For a long time, people thought they were the same fish.

Where Does It Live?

The green phantom pleco is native to South America. It lives in the freshwaters of Venezuela. Specifically, it's found in the large Orinoco River basin. It also lives in the Casiquiare canal system.

These areas have clear, flowing water. The fish prefers places with lots of rocks. These rocks provide hiding spots and places to graze for food.

See also

In Spanish: Hemiancistrus subviridis para niños