
Blue Phantom Pleco L128
Live Fish
Shipping & Returns
All live fish are shipped using NZPost overnight services with authority to leave (no signature).
We cannot guarantee the overnight services, this is a service that we/you pay for; but is not guaranteed.
We DO NOT offer returns on any alive animal.
Above are key points of our policy, Click Here to read our full shipping policy.
Dead On Arrival (DOA) Cover*
- DOA must be reported within 2 hours of delivery.
- Bags must remain sealed (do not remove rubber band or tape)
- Photos & Videos must be supplied this can be emailed or sent through live chat; including your order No. (minimum 3 clear images, showing dead fish & sealed bag)
- DOA does not apply once the bags are opened & fish have been released.
- DOA does not apply to any Rural (RD) address.
Introducing New Fish
Follow these steps to minimize stress and ensure a smooth transition for your new fish!
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Float the Bag: Place the sealed bag containing the new fish in the tank. This equalizes the temperature between bag and tank water.
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Open and Add Tank Water Gradually: After about 5 minutes, open the bag and add a small amount of aquarium water into it every 5 minutes for 15–30 minutes. This helps the fish acclimate to the tank’s water chemistry.
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Wait 15–30 Minutes: Let the fish adjust to the water temperature and chemistry gradually in the bag.
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Release Fish: Gently release the fish into the tank without pouring the original bag water in.
Blue Phantom Pleco L128
Natural Habitat
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Region: Rio Orinoco, Venezuela and Colombia
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Water Conditions:
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Temperature: 76–84°F (24–29°C)
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pH: 6.5–7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
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Hardness: Soft to moderately hard
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This species thrives in fast-flowing, oxygen-rich river systems with rocky substrates, driftwood, and hiding spaces
Size & Lifespan
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Adult Size: Up to 7 inches (18 cm)
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Lifespan: 8–10 years with proper care
Appearance
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Color: Striking slate to cobalt blue body with pale to white spots.
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Fins: Strong pectoral and dorsal fins, often dark-edged.
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Sexual Dimorphism: Males tend to have more pronounced odontodes (dermal teeth) on the cheeks and pectoral fins.
Tank Setup
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Substrate: Sand or fine gravel
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Decor: Plenty of rocks, driftwood, caves, and shaded areas
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Filtration: Strong water flow and high oxygenation (mimic river currents)
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Lighting: Moderate; dimmer lighting with cover encourages natural behavior
Diet & Feeding
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Diet Type: Omnivore
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Preferred Foods:
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Algae wafers
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Fresh vegetables (zucchini, cucumber, spinach)
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Protein sources: Bloodworms, brine shrimp, sinking pellets
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Feeding Frequency: Once or twice daily; remove uneaten food to maintain water quality
Temperament & Tank Mates
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Temperament: Peaceful but territorial with other plecos
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Best Tank Mates:
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Community fish (tetras, rasboras, gouramis)
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Bottom dwellers like Corydoras (with space separation)
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Avoid overly aggressive or large predators
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Territory: Prefers its own space and may defend it from other plecos
Breeding Information
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Difficulty: Rarely bred in captivity
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Breeding Behavior:
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Males guard caves
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Require precise water parameters and dedicated breeding setups
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Tips: Cooler water changes and high oxygenation may help stimulate breeding