Common Name: L236 Pleco
Scientific Name: Hypancistrus sp. “Bello Monte”
Other Names: L236 Hypancistrus, High-Contrast Zebra Pleco
The L236 Pleco is a highly sought-after Hypancistrus species known for its bold black-and-white patterning, similar to the Zebra Pleco (Hypancistrus zebra), but with more irregular and intricate markings. Its striking contrast, small size, and peaceful nature make it a prized pleco among aquarists and breeders. This species is more carnivorous than many other plecos and thrives in well-maintained, oxygen-rich aquariums with plenty of hiding spaces.
Habitat and Distribution:
Native to the Rio Xingu in Brazil, specifically near the Bello Monte region, L236 Plecos are found in fast-flowing, highly oxygenated waters with rocky substrates. Their natural habitat consists of warm, clear water with moderate currents, where they seek shelter in rock crevices and caves. Due to environmental changes in the Xingu River, this species is becoming increasingly rare in the wild.
Size and Lifespan:
This species grows to about 3.5-4.5 inches (9-11 cm). With proper care, it can live for 10-15 years.
Diet and Behavior:
L236 Plecos are omnivores but prefer a protein-rich diet. In the wild, they primarily consume small invertebrates, biofilm, and organic matter. In captivity, they should be fed high-quality sinking carnivore pellets, frozen or live foods such as bloodworms, blackworms, and brine shrimp, and occasional vegetable matter like spirulina wafers or blanched zucchini. They are nocturnal and spend most of the day hiding in caves, becoming more active in the evening.
Breeding and Reproduction:
Like other Hypancistrus species, L236 is a cave spawner. Males guard the eggs inside a cave, fanning them until they hatch. Successful breeding requires a well-structured aquarium with multiple caves, stable water conditions, and a high-protein diet. Once the fry hatch, they can be fed baby brine shrimp and finely crushed sinking foods.
Aquarium Care and Tank Requirements:
A minimum of 30 gallons is recommended for a single specimen, with a larger tank (40+ gallons) preferred for a small group. Their ideal tank setup includes a soft sand or fine gravel substrate, multiple caves and driftwood for shelter, strong filtration with high oxygenation, moderate to strong water flow to replicate river conditions, and dim to moderate lighting to reduce stress.
Ideal Tank Mates:
L236 Plecos are peaceful and do well in community tanks with other non-aggressive species. Suitable tank mates include Tetras, Corydoras, Rasboras, Dwarf Cichlids (Apistogramma and Ram Cichlids), and other small to medium-sized South American fish. Avoid large, aggressive species that may outcompete them for food or invade their hiding spaces.
Difficulty Level:
Intermediate to Advanced. They require stable water conditions, a high-protein diet, and a well-oxygenated environment to thrive.
Water Parameters:
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Temperature: 78-86°F (26-30°C)
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pH: 6.0-7.5
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General Hardness (GH): 4-12 dGH
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Carbonate Hardness (KH): 3-8 dKH
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Ammonia: 0 ppm
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Nitrite: 0 ppm
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Nitrate: <20 ppm (regular water changes required)
Additional Information:
- L236 Plecos are often confused with other Hypancistrus species, but they have a distinct high-contrast pattern.
- They require high oxygen levels and benefit from additional aeration or powerheads.
- Due to their rarity, they are commonly bred in captivity, and wild specimens are difficult to obtain.
The L236 Pleco is a stunning and highly desirable species for advanced aquarists looking for a unique and visually striking Hypancistrus. With proper care, they make a rewarding and long-lived addition to well-maintained aquariums.
