Zebra pleco
Hypancistrus zebra · Loricariidae
Also known as L046
Advanced
The famous black-and-white L046: small, expensive, carnivorous and not an algae eater.
In short: A zebra pleco needs at least 110 L (29 US gal), water at 27–30 °C (81–86 °F) and pH 6–7.2. It is peaceful, best kept in groups of 3 or more, and rated advanced to keep.
Updated
- Minimum tank
- 110 L (29 US gal)
- Temperature
- 27–30 °C (81–86 °F)
- pH
- 6–7.2
- Adult size
- 8 cm (3.1 in)
- Group size
- 3+
Care requirements
- Minimum tank volume
- 110 L (29 US gal)
- Temperature
- 27–30 °C (81–86 °F)
- pH
- 6–7.2
- Hardness
- 1–10 dGH
- Lifespan
- 10–15 years
- Diet
- Carnivore — frozen bloodworm, mysis, high-protein sinking pellets.
- Care level
- Advanced
Origin & habitat
- Native region
- Rio Xingu, Brazil
- Water type
- Freshwater
- Biotope
- Fast, warm, rocky river channels
- Natural conditions
- Warm, very clean, oxygen-rich water with strong flow and caves.
Behaviour & stocking
- Temperament
- Peaceful
- Minimum group
- 3 fish
- Swims
- Bottom
- Good tank mates
- Small tetrasCorydorasDwarf cichlids
- Avoid
- Cool tanksAggressive bottom feeders
Breeding & difficulty
- Breeding difficulty
- Advanced
- Sexing
- Males have broader heads and stronger cheek odontodes.
- Notes
- Cave spawner; the male guards eggs and fry.
- Common ailments
- Low-oxygen stressInternal parasitesStarvation on veg-only diets
Will it fit your tank?
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