L046 Zebra Pleco
The L046 Zebra Pleco is a striking black-and-white striped catfish from the Xingu River. It requires warm, clean water, high oxygen levels and a deliberate feeding routine.
 
Key Features
Scientific Name: Hypancistrus zebra
Armoured bottom-dwelling catfish
Enjoys shelters and caves
Needs deliberate feeding
Adult Size: Around 8–10cm
 
Care Requirements
Temperature: 26–28°C
pH: 6.0–7.0
Recommended Tank Size: 100L or larger for one adult; more space for a group
Diet: Protein-rich sinking foods and small suitable aquatic frozen or live foods
 
Temperament
Usually compatible with appropriately chosen fish, but may compete with other bottom dwellers for caves and food. Provide separate territories and monitor behaviour.
 
Notes
Use a mature aquarium with reliable filtration, high oxygen levels and regular partial water changes.
Provide multiple shelters, with extra space when keeping more than one fish.
Do not rely on algae or uneaten food as the complete diet.
Keep different L-number breeding strains separate to reduce hybridisation risk.