Zebra Pleco
Hypancistrus zebra
What you need to keep a Zebra Pleco
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pH
6–7.5
Temperature
26–30 °C
Where to buy
Compare prices from SA aquarium shops listing Zebra Pleco.
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Overview
What to know before you buy.
The Zebra Pleco (L046) is a stunningly beautiful and highly sought-after catfish with bold black and white stripes. They are a more carnivorous species that requires warm, highly oxygenated water with a strong current. Due to their price and specific needs, they are best kept in a dedicated species tank by experienced aquarists.
Key traits
Care guide
Keeping Zebra Pleco healthy in a South African setup.
Tank setup
Size the aquarium to Zebra Pleco's adult size and activity level. Use robust décor and sight breaks so each fish can hold its own space.
Water parameters
Keep pH 6–7.5 and 26–30°C. Stable parameters matter more than chasing perfect numbers; acclimate new arrivals slowly.
Feeding
Carnivore. Feed small amounts it clears in a couple of minutes, and vary the diet.
Behaviour
Territorial. Watch it at feeding time and at lights-out to see its real temperament in your tank.
Tankmates
Choose robust tankmates of similar size, and nothing small enough to be eaten. Add Zebra Pleco last so territories reset.
Breeding
Breeding success with Zebra Pleco depends on the line and water chemistry; ask your shop about proven pairs.
Settling this fish in?
Condition the tap water, seed the filter, test through the first weeks — most early losses trace back to one of those.
10% off your first order, no code, at checkout
Availability confirmed with the distributor before dispatch · free delivery over r750
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Market intelligence
Price trends and buyer demand — data only FishHub tracks.
Price history — last 90 days
SA price range this month: R700–700 · Average: R700
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