Zebra Pleco – L046

L046 Zebra Pleco (Hypancistrus sp.)

The L046 Zebra Pleco is aptly named for its bold black and white stripes that run horizontally across its body, resembling the pattern of a zebra. This coloration, combined with its sleek, flattened body shape, makes it a standout addition to any aquarium. The Zebra Pleco is a relatively small species, with adults reaching a maximum size of about 3 to 4 inches.

In terms of personality, the Zebra Pleco is a peaceful and somewhat shy species. They are nocturnal by nature, often hiding during the day and becoming more active when the lights go down. Despite their peaceful nature, they can be somewhat territorial, especially when it comes to their chosen hiding spots. It’s best to keep only one in a tank unless it is large enough to provide multiple territories. Each Zebra Pleco will claim a territory of approximately 12 inches by 12 inches with broken up sight lines.

When considering tank mates for the Zebra Pleco, it's important to choose other peaceful species that will not disturb them. Small dither fish which do not compete with Zebra Plecos for food. Peaceful fish such as tetras and rasboras make good companions, as do other bottom dwellers like Corydoras catfish. However, aggressive or large fish, such as cichlids or large barbs, are not suitable tank mates as they can stress or harm the Zebra Pleco.

The Zebra Pleco is primarily a carnivore with a preference for meaty foods. Their diet should include a variety of high-protein sinking pellets, as well as live or frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, or daphnia. Occasionally, they may be fed algae pellets or vegetables such as lettuce, crushed peas, cucumber, and squash.

Creating a comfortable habitat for the Zebra Pleco involves incorporating elements that mimic their natural environment. This includes a fine sand or smooth gravel substrate, allowing them to forage without damaging their delicate barbels. Plants such as Java fern, with its large leaves, can provide a sense of safety and cover as the Zebra Pleco is a plant-friendly species. Floating plants can help reduce light intensity, catering to the Pleco's preference for low-light environments. It's also important to include structures like caves made from smooth rocks, slate, or terracotta pipes, to provide the Pleco with a sense of security.

In terms of water parameters, the Zebra Pleco is quite adaptable. The minimum aquarium size for a single individual is 30 gallons, while a community aquarium should be at least 50 gallons to provide ample space. The ideal pH range is between 6.5 and 7.5, and the hardness should be within 5-10 dGH. The temperature should be maintained between 78-86°F (26-30°C). Zebra Plecos thrives best in well-oxygenated water with consistent water parameters and moderate current.