L046 Zebra Pleco

 Due to the sensitive nature of this species, we cannot cover any losses once the bag has been opened upon arrival. All DOA claims must be made within 2 hours of delivery and photos must clearly show the unopened bag. 

Remarks:  Out of all Loricariids within the hobby, the L046 zebra pleco is one of if not the most desirable species among hobbyists. Few catfish can compare to their striking white bodies and fins covered in black zebra stripes making for some incredible contrast. Their small size also adds to their desirability as it makes it much easier to house them compared to other rare but large plecos. Despite their popularity, the L046 zebra pleco is fairly uncommon in the hobby as it is critically endangered in the wild due to construction of dams and tends to breed rather infrequently in captivity. However, more efforts have thankfully been being made, including here at Imperial Tropicals where we have had a breeding colony for a number of years, to increase their numbers among the captive population.

    The L046 zebra pleco is a typical Hypancistrus in regards to their care in captivity. They come from rocky areas of pristine, heavily oxygenated, warm, soft, and acidic water. It has been noted that they are surprisingly tolerant of a somewhat broader range of parameters in regards to hardness and pH compared to other sensitive plecos. However, they are unforgiving when it comes to water quality, oxygen levels, and temperature. If any of these are not kept at acceptable levels, the L046 zebra pleco will decline in health and eventually die. Using a high quality filter with a high flow rate along with a heater and frequent water changes will help keep these plecos happy and healthy. Like all known Hypancistrus, the L046 zebra pleco is a carnivore so they must be fed a varied diet high in protein. Protein rich gel foods like Repashy, bloodworms, and sinking wafers are good choices to feed to meet their dietary needs. 

  A unique and important thing to note about the L046 zebra pleco is that they are social fish. If kept in groups less than at least 5-6 fish, it will cause them to become very stressed resulting in the fish hiding even more and even stop eating in some cases. Notably, these small plecos are rather shy even when it comes to eating so they should not be kept with any fish that are overly boisterous, aggressive, or large enough to fit them in their mouths such as large cichlids. While they can be kept in a peaceful community set up with fish that prefer the same parameters, L046 zebra plecos are best kept alone, otherwise careful attention should be paid to ensure they are getting enough to eat and are not getting bullied.

 While the L046 zebra pleco is a gregarious species, some territorial aggression can pop up among males when they are spawning. To reduce territorial fights and help the L046 zebra pleco feel comfortable in the aquarium, plenty of snug, rocky caves should be provided for them to hide in. These caves are also where these fish will spawn if all other conditions are just right. Males will guard the caves they spawn in, keeping the fry inside until they are able to swim out on their own safely. L046 zebra pleco fry can be fed baby brine shrimp, carnivore Repashy foods, and high protein wafers similar to adults. They can be a very exciting breeding project as they are such a unique and beautiful catfish that requires diligent efforts in regards to breeding to keep them present within the hobby. We encourage any who look to keep this amazing species do so with the intent to breed them.