L270 Hypancistrus. Chocolate Zebra Pleco L-Number Catfish - (No Online Purchases)

Also known as the Tapajos Zebra Pleco, this catfish is currently only available through captive breeding as exports from Brazil are banned. It is part of the L270 Hypancistrus species which also includes the Scribble Pleco Catfish and the Network Pleco Catfish. They are a non-aggressive species that pairs well with smaller fish and biotope environments. They typically don’t eat live prey, acting more as a scavenger who will also eat some vegetable matter. In addition to being rare, they require a constant current, clear water and plenty of hiding spaces. 

Scientific name: Hypancistrus zebra

Level of care required: Medium

Adult Size: 10cm - 14cm

Expected Life Span: Estimated 5-10 years

Minimum Tank Size: 200 Litres

Required Tank Temperature: 23°C - 26°C

Required PH Level: 5.0 - 7.5

Required Diet: Omnivore

Recommended Tank Level: Mid-level or High-level

Temperament: Chocolate Zebra Plecos are shy and enjoy hiding spots such as caves and rocks. They pair well with smaller fish who they don’t have to compete with for food sources. They can be kept with other catfish species but it is not recommended due to risk of crossbreeding. Owners should also avoid certain species of Perch and larger fish who have been known to attack the fins of the Chocolate Zebra Pleco.

Location of Origin: Brazil

Feeding: Various frozen foods (Artemia, red and black mosquito larvae) as well as Spirulina tabs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is my fish eating?

Fish leave our care eating commercially available nori, pellets and frozen foods.

Is my fish disease free?

As part of the quarantine process they are treated for flukes, ich and bacterial infection.

Will my fish live longer than 72 hours?

They have spent 14 days in quarantine in Brisbane, as well as the time spent in-store (we try and match salinity, ph and temperature as closely as possible with the quarantine provider), so have survived this far. As a result of this sudden deaths are most likely to be as a result of local water parameters and/or stress induced as a result of other fish and environment.

Has this fish been exposed to copper?

Not during the quarantine process or in-store. We believe the use of copper is a very harsh form of treatment and the use of it usually masks a variety of diseases. When the fish arrive at our store for sale to the public they have been quarantined to a gold standard and guaranteed to provide you with a healthy and parasite free fish.