Green Dragon Short Fin

The Green Dragon Shortfin Pleco (also known as Ancistrus sp.) is a fascinating freshwater fish that captures the imagination of aquarists. Let’s dive into the details:

1. Appearance:

   • The Green Dragon Pleco features a dark olive to green-brown coloration.
   • Mature males develop long “bristles” on their faces, similar to other Bristlenose Pleco varieties.
   • Their dorsal, tail, and pelvic fins showcase a translucent gray and green coloration.

2. Varieties and Confusion:

   • The Green Dragon Pleco is often sold under different names, including Shortfin Green Dragon and Green Dragon Bristlenose.
   • However, there’s some online confusion regarding what constitutes an actual Green Dragon Pleco.
   • Pictures online may sometimes depict a lighter green fish known as the Green Phantom Pleco (L200) instead.
   • Additionally, there exists a Longfin Green Dragon Pleco with extremely long flowing fins.
   • Both the Shortfin and Longfin Green Dragons are products of line-breeding and haven’t been assigned L-numbers.
   • It’s crucial to differentiate between these two Plecos before making a purchase.

3. Care and Characteristics:

   • Green Dragon Plecos are hardy and easy to care for, making them great choices for beginners.
   • They tolerate a wide temperature range (70°F to 80°F), with 78°F being their comfort zone.
   • Water pH should be neutral (between 6.5 and 7.5).
   • These Plecos usually grow to a length of 4 to 5 inches in captivity.
   • Their growth rate is relatively quick, reaching 2 inches within a few months and taking 2 to 3 years to reach maximum length.
   • Their diet consists of vegetable-based foods, blanched vegetables (like cucumber and green beans), and algae wafers. Occasional treats of frozen meaty foods are appreciated, but protein intake should be moderate,

In summary, the Green Dragon Shortfin Pleco is a delightful addition to freshwater aquariums, known for its unique appearance and ease of care