Common Name: L236 Pleco (Super White)
Scientific Name: Hypancistrus sp. “Bello Monte” (Super White)
Other Names: L236 Super White Pleco, High-Contrast Zebra Pleco
The L236 Super White Pleco is a highly prized Hypancistrus variant known for its striking high-contrast black and white coloration. Unlike the standard L236, the Super White variety features a more pronounced white base with minimal black markings, creating a bold and highly sought-after pattern. Due to its rarity and selective breeding, it is one of the most expensive and desirable plecos among aquarists and collectors. Like other Hypancistrus species, it thrives in well-oxygenated aquariums with plenty of caves and hiding spots.
Habitat and Distribution:
Originally from the Rio Xingu in Brazil, near the Belo Monte region, L236 Super White Plecos are found in fast-flowing, highly oxygenated waters with rocky substrates. Their natural habitat consists of clear, warm waters with moderate currents, where they seek shelter in rock crevices and caves. Due to habitat alterations in the Xingu River, wild populations of Hypancistrus species are becoming increasingly rare.
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 Super White Plecos are omnivores but have a strong preference for protein-rich foods. 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 plant-based foods like spirulina wafers or blanched zucchini. They are nocturnal and spend most of their time hiding in caves, becoming more active at night.
Breeding and Reproduction:
Like other Hypancistrus species, L236 Super White is a cave spawner. Males guard the eggs inside a chosen cave, fanning them until they hatch. Successful breeding requires a well-structured aquarium with multiple caves, stable soft to slightly acidic water conditions, and a high-protein diet. Selective breeding has been used to develop the Super White variety, meaning that offspring may not always exhibit the same high-contrast patterns. Fry can be fed baby brine shrimp and finely crushed sinking foods.
Aquarium Care and Tank Requirements:
A minimum of 30 gallons is required 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 Super White 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:
Advanced. They require stable water conditions, a high-protein diet, and a well-oxygenated environment to thrive. Due to their high market value and selective breeding, they are best suited for experienced aquarists.
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:
- The Super White variety is selectively bred for its high-contrast coloration, meaning patterns can vary between individuals.
- High oxygen levels are essential, and additional aeration or powerheads are recommended.
- Due to their rarity, they are one of the most expensive Hypancistrus species available in the aquarium trade.
The L236 Super White Pleco is an exquisite, selectively bred variant of Hypancistrus that requires dedicated care and optimal tank conditions. Its striking coloration makes it a centerpiece fish for advanced aquarists looking to keep a rare and highly desirable pleco species.
