🦓 Zebra Pleco (Hypancistrus zebra, L046)
Striped • Dwarf Pleco • Omnivore
 
📋 The Zebra Pleco (Hypancistrus zebra, L046) is a dwarf pleco world-famous for its bold black-and-white zebra striping. Its striking pattern makes it one of the most iconic and desirable L-number plecos in the aquarium hobby.
Reaching only 8–10 cm (3–4"), the Zebra Pleco is small but highly distinctive, making it suitable for smaller aquariums. It is generally peaceful, though males may become territorial over caves, particularly during breeding.
An omnivore with a preference for protein, it requires a diet of sinking carnivore pellets, frozen/live foods, and occasional algae supplements. Once considered extremely rare due to wild export bans, the Zebra Pleco is now widely captive bred, ensuring its continued presence in the hobby.
 
💡 Highlights
🦓 Zebra Stripes: Iconic black-and-white banded pattern
📏 Dwarf Size: Reaches only 8–10 cm (3–4")
✅ Community Friendly: Peaceful, with minor territorial behavior
🍖 Protein Diet: Prefers meaty foods with algae supplements
💎 Collector’s Icon: Famous, highly prized, and widely bred