Blue-Eye Lemon Pleco

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• Size: 1-3 Inches 
• Sold as: Unsexed

The Blue-Eye Lemon Pleco (Hemiancistrus subviridis) is a stunning and relatively rare species of pleco that stands out due to its bright, striking coloration and unique features. It’s a beautiful freshwater fish that can make an impressive addition to an aquarium.

Key Characteristics:

• Size: The Blue-Eye Lemon Pleco can grow up to about 4 to 5 inches (10-13 cm) in length when fully mature, making it a medium-sized pleco.

• Appearance: This species is named for its vibrant yellowish body (resembling the color of a lemon) and its striking blue eyes. The contrast between the yellow body and the blue eyes is particularly eye-catching. Their body is relatively flat, which is typical for plecos, and they have small, fine bristles along their body, which are characteristic of the family.

• Coloration: The fish’s main feature is its beautiful, bright yellow coloration, which can sometimes appear more gold depending on the individual and water conditions. The blue eyes provide a nice contrast, adding a unique touch.

Care Requirements:

• Tank Setup: Blue-Eye Lemon Plecos require a well-maintained tank with plenty of hiding spots. They like tanks with driftwood, caves, and dense plants, as these areas provide shelter and mimic their natural environment in the wild, where they live among rocks and submerged wood in fast-moving rivers.

• Water Conditions: These plecos are relatively hardy but prefer slightly acidic to neutral water (pH 6.5-7.5) and a temperature range of 74-82°F (23-28°C). They thrive in soft to moderately hard water, so regular water changes and good filtration are important for keeping their environment clean and stable.

• Diet: Like other plecos, the Blue-Eye Lemon Pleco is primarily herbivorous. They feed on algae, biofilm, and plant matter in the wild. In the aquarium, they will enjoy algae wafers, blanched vegetables (like zucchini or spinach), and even high-quality pleco pellets. It's important to provide enough plant-based food to support their diet and health.

Behavior and Compatibility:

• Social Behavior: The Blue-Eye Lemon Pleco is relatively peaceful but can be somewhat territorial, especially in smaller tanks. They may get a bit defensive over their favorite hiding spots or feeding areas. They are not typically aggressive but can become more reclusive if stressed.

• Tankmates: This pleco generally does well with other peaceful species, especially those that are not large enough to compete for food or space. Suitable tankmates include small to medium-sized fish like tetras, rasboras, and other peaceful bottom dwellers. Avoid keeping them with overly aggressive or large fish that might intimidate them.

• Activity: The Blue-Eye Lemon Pleco is primarily nocturnal, so you may find them active during the evening or night. During the day, they typically remain hidden in caves or among plants. They are excellent algae eaters and spend a lot of time grazing on surfaces, which can help keep your tank clean.

Special Considerations:

• Space: Although they are not as large as some other pleco species, the Blue-Eye Lemon Pleco still requires ample space in the aquarium to swim and forage. A tank size of at least 30 gallons is recommended, though larger tanks are always better for providing a stable environment.

• Water Quality: They are quite sensitive to poor water conditions, so good filtration and regular water changes are essential. Keeping their tank clean and stable is key to their health and well-being.

• Algae: While they do eat algae, they may not keep the tank as completely algae-free as some larger plecos. Supplement their diet with algae wafers and fresh vegetables to ensure they are getting enough nutrition.

Fish may not be identical to the pictures you see, most are the parents as what they will grow up to resemble.