Based on the above paragraph, here’s a list of acceptable food for zebra plecos:
- Brine shrimp
- Blood worms
- Fly larvae
- Cucumbers
- Sinking pellets
- Crushed peas
- Zucchini
What do zebra pleco fish eat?
Zebra pleco isn’t demanding in terms of food. Unlike common catfishes, the fish prefers protein food. Though you can offer it both vegetable and protein food. You may use peas, boiled lettuce leaves, cucumber, squash etc. as supplements to the diet.
What are the best tank mates for Zebra plecos?
The best tank mates for Zebra Plecos are those that are non-aggressive; they really don’t like to have to compete for food and space. Because they are bottom feeders, it is best to pair them with fish that inhabit the middle and top sections of the aquarium. Avoid placing bottom-dwellers that are larger and more active than the Zebra Plecos.
How do I Keep my zebra pleco happy and healthy?
The best way to keep your Zebra Pleco happy and healthy is to mimic the waters of Rio Xingu. This doesn’t just apply to decorations. You’ll need to closely replicate water conditions too! Zebra Plecos prefer warmer waters that are on the neutral side. Anything that’s too alkaline or too acidic can lead to stress and disease.
How do you breed a zebra pleco?
Breeding. If you want to breed Zebra Plecos, it’s not a super difficult process. You can encourage breeding by raising the water temperature to about 82°F (27.8°C) and increasing the oxygen level in the tank. The female will have about 15 eggs.
What is the best food for plecos?
A well-balanced pleco diet consists of: Algae and sinking algae wafers. Plecos require plenty of fiber. Supplement with raw zucchini, sweet potato, carrots, lettuce, spinach or cucumbers as a treat once or twice a week.
Do Zebra Plecos eat algae?
In the wild, the zebra pleco usually eats some combination of algae, detritus (organic matter), seeds, and other small morsels. In captivity, they enjoy protein-rich pellets, live or freeze-dried food (such as bloodworms and brine shrimp), and the occasional algae wafer or blanched vegetable.
What should I feed my l046?
2:228:18My Top 5 Zebra Pleco Foods - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipBut they're a nice size for my small l46 zebras. And they really enjoy feeding on these here. SoMoreBut they're a nice size for my small l46 zebras. And they really enjoy feeding on these here. So that is my number four food is the Hikari sinking carnivore pellet.
How big do zebra pleco get?
They grow between 3 - 4 inches (7.5 - 10 cm) and their lifespan is known to be about 10 - 15 years. When first introduced to the aquarium it is essential to make sure that the zebra pleco is getting food.
How fast do zebra Plecos grow?
They're slow growers and unless you pay them a lot of attention in terms of feeding, space and water quality, getting them to grow more than 1cm every 6-8 weeks will be a challenge. Zebra plecs are now bred in commercial numbers and these turn out beautiful clean fish in number.
How do you take care of a zebra pleco?
Zebra Plecos do best on a high-protein diet. Because they are bottom-dwellers, go for sinking pellets rather than flakes. Live or freeze-dried foods work well, too. Zebra Plecos enjoy brine shrimp and bloodworms. The occasional algae wafer and blanched vegetable can be provided as well.
Why are zebra Plecos so expensive?
The relatively high prices for Hypancistrus zebra result primarily due to the high demand and the relatively small clutch sizes. Of course, the Brazilian export ban will also have some part in it. But you should always remember that you cannot distinguish wild and captive-bred.
Do zebra pleco eat shrimp?
Zebra pleco diet To keep your zebra healthy, you should have a variety of live and frozen food on hand. They especially like bloodworms, but brine shrimp, mosquito larvae, and other worms should also be supplemented.
How much is a zebra pleco fish?
Click Here To Find Your Zone1.2" +$139.00Add to cart3-3.5 in Males Only$395.00Add to cart
Are Zebra Plecos shy?
Zebra Plecos are Extremely Shy Indeed, this is a common source of frustration for many new zebra owners.
What is the rarest pleco?
One of the rarer plecos in the hobby, the Typhoon is also one of the prettiest. Large, carnivorous and territorial; this is an awesome fish – just expect to pay a lot for one if you find one… but they are well worth it!
Can I keep two plecos together?
"No" to Multiple Plecos Together They often do wonderfully alongside other types of community freshwater fish. When plecos reach maturity, they simply cannot get along with fellow plecos. They can be highly territorial around each other. Therefore, it can be extremely dangerous ever to house them together.
Do Plecos clean tanks?
You may even have searched for fish that clean the tank. In freshwater aquariums, “Plecos” (short for plecostomus and used to refer to fish of the family Loricariidae) are one of the most common fish purchased to aid in algae cleanup.
How much does a zebra pleco cost?
Prices remain much higher now than they ever were, with online retail prices often in the $300 to $400 range, and even localized successful breeders asking $150 to $200 per fish.
Are zebra Plecos shy?
Zebra Plecos are Extremely Shy Indeed, this is a common source of frustration for many new zebra owners.
What is the rarest pleco?
One of the rarer plecos in the hobby, the Typhoon is also one of the prettiest. Large, carnivorous and territorial; this is an awesome fish – just expect to pay a lot for one if you find one… but they are well worth it!
What do plecos eat?
Some plecos lean toward eating meatier foods, and all of them will enjoy occasional meals of small worms, insect larvae, crustaceans or such. These high-protein treats are no doubt similar to the small creatures they could capture while grazing on algae beds in the wild. I do give frozen bloodworms to my plecos with some regularity, and during gardening season, treats of small (or chopped- don’t gag please, they really are frozen and broken) earthworms. The only trick is to feed the cats in mixed tanks without the other fish stealing the treats. I do this using red lights after the regular tank lights and room lights are out, but then everybody already knows I am a bit crazy.
What fish are attacking my pleco catfish?
A recurring theme on the boards are pleas for help, shock, and dismay from tank keepers whose pleco catfish are attacking their prize Discus, Gouramis, Silver Dollars, Goldfish, or any other fish with a large enough body for the pleco to grasp with their mouth.
Why do fish eat sword plants?
Once the fish have reached only a fraction of adult size there is no way a plant leaf can support them easily, if at all. So they start ignoring the plants. Or worse, they weigh down the lower leaves of swordplants or such, and rasp away the whole thing. They are not being malicious. They are hungry. They would prefer softer, more readily available food, but if there is not any, they will eat what they can get. This can include just about any plant we grow, with the probable exception of Java Fern. This behavior is not a fish problem; it is a fishkeeper problem. We are not feeding the fish properly.
What to feed catfish babies?
This is most easily done by microwaving the peas or beans briefly in a little water, then shelling them. To me this is a hassle; to you it may be easier than slicing zucchini. If it is no problem, these items are something else that can be used in the fish veggie rotation. I confess that I do this only for delicate catfish babies. It was the only way I was able to feed Sturisoma fry, and even that was not very successful.
What is the best lettuce for fish?
Leaf lettuces are also popular and good foods for these fish. Romaine is the most commonly suggested, but most dark leaf lettuces can be used. Iceberg lettuce is low in food value and would provide essentially bulk only, I do not use it. Leaves are best either blanched or frozen.
Can pleco cats eat algae?
Algae. Most of us purchase our first pleco cat as an algae eater. Most of these fish will do that, with some reservations. The Hypostomus-type plecos will usually do a pretty good job on the tank glass, river rock, and large pieces of driftwood. But they quickly grow too large and heavy to work on plant leaves.
Can you keep a large pleco in a tank?
I would also question the idea of keeping any of the large Plecos in a standard planted tank. They are just too big for “Dutch Style” tanks. The bull-in-a-china-shop concept fits here. Actually, I believe that any catfish with adult size in excess of 6″ probably should not be in such tanks. Peckoltia and Ancistrus species are about as big as you should go. Probably the best in the family for heavily planted tanks is from a different group, the Otocinclus species. They stay small and agile and do not damage plants. Along with their smaller size, they seem not to be territorial as are their larger cousins. In fact, they need the company of conspecifics for comfort and security.
How to keep a zebra pleco healthy?
The best way to keep your Zebra Pleco happy and healthy is to mimic the waters of Rio Xingu. This doesn’t just apply to decorations. You’ll need to closely replicate water conditions too!
What is a zebra pleco?
The Zebra Pleco (scientific name: Hypancistrus zebra) is a relatively rare freshwater species that is highly sought after by aquarists. Often known as the Imperial Pleco, these fish are not as widespread as other types of plecos. Thus, they usually come with a higher price tag.
How many whiskers does a zebra pleco have?
Surrounding the mouth, you’ll find four whiskers that are used to scope out the environment. The eyes are pretty large and bulbous, too, giving the fish a unique look. The Zebra Pleco has a set of large rayed fins. The triangular dorsal fin stands tall.
What are the diseases that zebra plecos are at risk for?
Zebra Plecos are at risk of experiencing all of the standard freshwater fish diseases. This includes Ich, fungal infections, and bacterial infections. Bacterial and fungal infections are quite common with Zebra Plecos. Many owners do anti-bacterial treatments regularly.
How long do zebra plecos live?
Lifespan. Caring for a Zebra Pleco is a long commitment. In a well-maintained tank, the lifespan of these fish is between 10 and 15 years. That said, there is no guarantee when it comes to life expectancy. Like any other freshwater fish, this species is susceptible to illness and premature death.
Why do zebra plecos have a shorter lifespan?
In most cases, a shortened lifespan occurs if they’re kept in substandard living conditions or have little access to high-quality foods. Proper care is a must if you want your Zebra Pleco to live as long as possible.
What to do if your fish gets a disease?
If your fish does get a disease, quarantine them, and provide suitable treatment. Many over-the-counter medicines are available. Just be wary of copper-based products! Zebra Plecos, as well as other pleco species, are more sensitive to copper than other fish.
Why is it important to keep zebra plecos in a group?
Providing your Zebra Plecos with plenty of space is especially important if you are keeping them in a group as having more space will reduce disagreements over territory,
What is a zebra pleco?
The Zebra Pleco is an attractive freshwater fish. Their distinctive stripy appearance makes them very popular with all types of aquarists and they are considered very easy to look after.
What is the best tankmate for a zebra pleco?
The most optimal tank mates for Zebra Plecos are more Zebra Plecos! A small community of Zebra Plecos will function best when one male is housed with several females, as this reduces aggression within the group.
Why are zebra plecos vulnerable to bacterial infections?
If the water parameters are wrong, the tank is poorly maintained, or their diet lacks nutrients, then Zebra Plecos are vulnerable to the same parasites and bacterial infections as other freshwater fish in domestic aquariums. These include the Ich parasite and fin rot.
How long do zebra plecos live?
Zebra Plecos can live 10 to 15 years in a well maintained tank. However, this lifespan will reduce dramatically if the fish are not well cared for. They need plenty of space to reduce stress and a fun environment to explore.
Where are zebra plecos found?
Zebra Plecos are not as common as other types of Pleco, and therefore are more expensive to buy. They are endemic to Rio Xingu in Brazil, but the construction of dams in this area has made them an endangered species in the wild.
How to tell a male from a female zebra?
It can be quite challenging to tell the difference between male and female Zebra Plecos. Both males and females have small hairs on pectoral fins, but these hairs are more prominent on males. The males tend to have wider heads than the females.
How to keep a zebra pleco happy?
To keep your Zebra Plecos happy and thriving, you’ll need highly oxygenated water and a strong current. Zebra Plecos have a wide range of acceptable water parameters, but they do prefer warmer water that is not too acidic nor alkaline.
How many gallons of water do you need for a zebra pleco?
You’ll need at least a 20-gallon tank for one Zebra Pleco, although 30 gallons is ideal. You’ll need a larger tank if you are hosting multiple Zebra Plecos, or if the Zebra Plecos are the beginning of a community tank, or if you are adding them to an existing community.
How many zebra plecos are in a 75 gallon tank?
There are conflicting schools of thought on keeping Zebra Plecos together. Some aquarists report having 20-30 Zebra Pleco in a 75-gallon tank, yet others say one Zebra Pleco is the way to go since they are so territorial.
What fish has a small mouth?
Small mouth: Although these fish have the trademark suckermouth, it’s important to remember that the Zebra Pleco has a much smaller mouth than other catfish, which will affect how you feed them. We’ll cover that in the “Diet” section.
How big do zebra plecos get?
At full maturity, Zebra Plecos reach about 3-4 inches (7.6-10.2 cm) in length. They’re smaller than some of the other plecos out there, which might explain why they shy away from crowds.
What is a zebra pleco?
The zebra pleco is one of the more eye-catching catfish species around, sporting a remark able black and white striped pattern (guess how it gets its name!)
Why are zebra plecos so rare?
Because the Zebra Plecos are so rare, they are also one of the pricier aquarium fish you can buy. And because they’re stunning, you want to make sure you get the best tips on proper care for these precious suckermouth beauties. Video Player is loading. This is a modal window.
How to make sure zebra pleco can hide?
To make sure that the zebra pleco can hide at any moment, put lots of shelters on the tank bottom. They should be of proper size to let your pets feel comfortable there.
How long do zebra plecos live?
In captivity these fish grow up to 8 cm (3,15 in) long, though in the wild is about 6.4 centimeters (2.5 in) long. The zebra pleco lifespan is about 10 years. Hypancistrus zebra distinctive feature is its unusual coloring, that consists of black and white stripes due to which the fish got its name.
What are some good shelters for fish?
Snags and various roots are both good shelters for the fish and tank decorations, so aquarists widely use them in such tanks. Slate stones are also used to build shelters for the fish. Hypancistrus zebra is a nocturnal fish and it becomes active when nightfall comes.
How many teeth does a zebra pleco have?
There are only eight deeply bifurcated teeth on the mandible; four from each side. The fish also has 2 pairs of small barbels. The zebra pleco has an elongated hooked pin on its premaxilla. The anal fin consists of 1 coarse and 4 soft rays.
What temperature should a zebra pleco tank be?
The zebra pleco requires warm oxygen-rich and clean water. Perfect tank conditions will be the following: tank water temperature 30-31 °C, powerful canister filter and neutral pH value.
What is a pleco catfish?
The zebra pleco (Hypancistrus zebra “L046”) is one of the most beautiful and unusual catfish that aquarists can find on sale. However, you can find various and quite controversial information about the fish keeping, feeding and breeding.
Why is Hypancistrus called Zebra?
Obviously, the fish obtained its generic name “zebra” due to the similarity of its coloring to black and white one of African zebra.
feeding Zebra plecos
All posts regarding the care and breeding of these catfishes from South America.
feeding Zebra plecos
Will be getting a group of four. Was wondering if there are any good frozen or dry foods that I can feed them that aren't bloodworms? I have a severe bloodworm allergy, and was searching the site for alternatives. All I can find are bloodworms and live foods.
Species Summary
Average Zebra Pleco Size
Lifespan
- Caring for a Zebra Pleco is a long commitment. In a well-maintained tank, the lifespan of these fish is between 10 and 15 years. That said, there is no guarantee when it comes to life expectancy. Like any other freshwater fish, this species is susceptible to illness and premature death. In most cases, a shortened lifespan occurs if they’re kept in substandard living condition…
Appearance
- These fish are aptly named after the iconic coloration that covers their bodies. They have alternating stripes of white and black. These stripes run laterally and can get very vibrant under the right lighting conditions. Like other plecos, this species has a flat bottom and under-turned sucker mouth. Surrounding the mouth, you’ll find four whiskers that are used to scope out the en…
Care
- There’s nothing particularly difficult about Zebra Pleco care. Many of their needs are similar to other species that come from South America. Even still, it’s important to be vigilant about providing the best care possible. You should prioritize their health when planning their habitat and diet, and always do your best to maintain their ideal water parameters. Below are some establis…
Food & Diet
- You might find your Zebra Pleco chowing down on aquarium algae every once in a while. But, they are not as fond of it as other plecos or voracious algae-eaters. Don’t make the mistake of thinking that you can provide these fish with only algae-based foods. Zebra Plecos do best on a high-protein diet. Invest in protein-rich dried foods. Because they...
Behavior & Temperament
- Zebra Plecos are very passive and shy. It’s not uncommon to see these fish hiding out in caves to get away from the ruckus of other fish. This is a nocturnal species, so don’t expect much activity during the day. Their activity level definitely increases at night though!During this time, they will scavenge for food or explore the tank. Zebra Plecos have been known to get a bit territorial with …
Tank Mates
- Zebra Plecos can be kept in community tanks. However, you’ll need to choose their tank mates carefully. The simplest choice would be other Zebra Plecos. You can house one male with a few females (this reduces the risk of aggression). As for other species, stick with similarly sized fish that are peaceful.Ideally, you should add non-aggressive fish that stick to the upper parts of the …
Zebra Pleco Breeding
- Zebra Pleco breeding is something that’s done very often in captivity. It’s a fairly straightforward process that you can usually trigger with a few simple water changes! In the wild, these fish spawn in the warm rainy season. This is usually between July and September. Raise the temperature of the water to around 82 degrees Fahrenheit.Then, infuse some oxygen into the w…
Pass It on
- Now that you know the correct ways to practice Zebra Pleco care, it’s your responsibility to share this knowledge with the aquarium community (when asked of course). The easiest way we can improve the quality of care our fish receive is by being good stewards of accurate and useful knowledge. If you have any other questions about Zebra Plecos (or feedback on how we can ma…
Species Summary
Care Guide
Lifespan
Appearance
Size
Behaviour & Temperament
- Zebra Plecos may have a flamboyant appearance, but they are shy fish with a passive personality. If placed with unsuitable tank mates they can often be bullied. It is important to feed Zebra Plecos in a quiet area of the tank as they are not confident to fight for their food. They will avoid a frenzy of feeding fish and go hungry. Zebra Plecos are ...
Breeding
Gender Differences: Male vs Female
Fun Facts