Common Name: King Tiger Pleco
Scientific Name: Hypancistrus sp. L333
Other Names: L333 Pleco, Yellow King Tiger Pleco
The King Tiger Pleco, with its contrasting dark and light horizontal stripes, offers a captivating and unique appearance that appeals to many aquarium enthusiasts. Its bold, zebra-like pattern and manageable size make it one of the more popular choices for pleco collectors.
Habitat and Distribution: The King Tiger Pleco is native to the Rio Xingu and Rio Tapajós in Brazil. They typically inhabit fast-flowing, rocky environments in clear waters. Their coloration assists in camouflage against such substrates.
Size and Lifespan: In the wild, they typically reach lengths of up to 5-6 inches (12-15 cm). In captivity, they might grow slightly larger, with some reaching around 7 inches. With proper care, these plecos can live for up to 10-15 years.
Diet and Behavior: While often labeled as omnivores, King Tiger Plecos have a preference for meaty foods. Offer high-quality sinking wafers/pellets, supplemented with occasional frozen or live foods like bloodworms or daphnia. They are nocturnal by nature and will mostly be active during the night.
Breeding and Reproduction: Breeding in captivity can be achieved by simulating natural conditions. This includes providing several cave structures and slightly lowering the water temperature. The male will guard the eggs in the cave, which will hatch in approximately a week.
Aquarium Care and Tank Requirements: A tank of at least 30 gallons is recommended. Emulate their natural environment with powerful filtration and circulation, providing plenty of hiding spots with rocks, caves, and driftwood.
Ideal Tank Mates: Being generally peaceful, King Tiger Plecos can be housed with most community fish like tetras, rasboras, and corydoras. Other plecos and larger, aggressive species should be introduced with caution.
Difficulty Level: Intermediate. Their need for pristine water and specific dietary requirements can make them slightly challenging for beginners.
Water Parameters:
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Temperature: 78-86°F (25-30°C)
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pH: 6.5-7.5
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General Hardness (GH): 6-10 dGH
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Carbonate Hardness (KH): 3-6 dKH
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Ammonia: 0 ppm
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Nitrite: 0 ppm
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Nitrate: <20 ppm
Additional Information:
- Their striking appearance makes them a centerpiece in many aquariums.
- Due to their nocturnal nature, it's beneficial to have a dimmed or moonlight setting for the evening to observe their behaviors.
