Zebra pleco, L046

Common name(s) Zebra pleco, L046, L098, L173, Imperial pleco Picture of Zebra Pleco

Photos taken at Wharf Aquatics
© Sean Evans

Scientific name Hypancistrus zebra

Synonyms

Size 3.5" (8.5cm)

Origin Brazil, Rio Xingu

Tank setup Dark rock or bogwood for refuges, preferably a sandy substrate. Very efficient filtration and good circulation.

Compatibility Peaceful. Avoid overly competitive bottom-feeders.

Temperature 25-30^oC (77-86^oF)

Water chemistry Fairly soft to slightly hard, pH 6.5-7.4

Feeding Omnivorous, tends to prefer meaty foods, but does eat green foods. Not really an algae eater.

Sexing The first ray of the pectoral fin is thicker in the male with odontodes (tiny spines) visible, these can also be observed just below the operculum (gill plate).

Breeding Maintain temperature at the upper end of the range. Spawning takes place in small caves. The male will guard his selected cave, which the female then enters. After spawning, the male fertilises and guards the eggs. It may be wise to hatch the eggs artificially, as the newly hatched fry may be eaten by the parents. Small regular water changes and good oxygenation are necessary. Feed the fry on newly hatched brine shrimp.

Comments This very striking fish has become much sought after since its initial appearance, and still commands quite a high price tag. It has been bred in captivity, but not on a regular basis or in sufficient quantity to supply the demand.

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This website was last updated on 18th January 2008

Common name(s)	Zebra pleco, L046, L098, L173, Imperial pleco	Photos taken at Wharf Aquatics `© Sean Evans`
Scientific name	Hypancistrus zebra
Synonyms
Size	3.5" (8.5cm)
Origin	Brazil, Rio Xingu
Tank setup	Dark rock or bogwood for refuges, preferably a sandy substrate. Very efficient filtration and good circulation.
Compatibility	Peaceful. Avoid overly competitive bottom-feeders.
Temperature	25-30^oC (77-86^oF)
Water chemistry	Fairly soft to slightly hard, pH 6.5-7.4
Feeding	Omnivorous, tends to prefer meaty foods, but does eat green foods. Not really an algae eater.
Sexing	The first ray of the pectoral fin is thicker in the male with odontodes (tiny spines) visible, these can also be observed just below the operculum (gill plate).
Breeding	Maintain temperature at the upper end of the range. Spawning takes place in small caves. The male will guard his selected cave, which the female then enters. After spawning, the male fertilises and guards the eggs. It may be wise to hatch the eggs artificially, as the newly hatched fry may be eaten by the parents. Small regular water changes and good oxygenation are necessary. Feed the fry on newly hatched brine shrimp.
Comments	This very striking fish has become much sought after since its initial appearance, and still commands quite a high price tag. It has been bred in captivity, but not on a regular basis or in sufficient quantity to supply the demand.