Colombian Zebra Pleco (L129) Care Guide
Hypancistrus debilittera (L129) is a small loricariid catfish from the Orinoco basin of Colombia and Venezuela, kept on caves and a meaty diet.
Overview
Hypancistrus debilittera is a small suckermouth catfish of the family Loricariidae, described in 2007 by Armbruster, Lujan and Taphorn. It is traded as L129. The genus Hypancistrus contains small plecos, with no species exceeding about 11 cm.
Taxonomy
- Family: Loricariidae
- Genus: Hypancistrus
- Scientific name: Hypancistrus debilittera
- Trade code: L129
Habitat
The species is native to the Orinoco River system in Colombia and Venezuela. Hypancistrus species typically inhabit bedrock and crevices in water with slow to moderate flow.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 80 L
- Temperature: 24-28 °C (75-82 °F)
- pH: 6.0-7.5
- GH: 2-10 °dGH
- Water flow: moderate, clean and well-oxygenated
- Lifespan: about 8-12 years
Caves are essential; clean, well-oxygenated water with moderate movement reflects the genus's natural rocky habitat.
Diet
Unlike grazing plecos, Hypancistrus species lean toward meatier foods. A carnivore-leaning diet of frozen and prepared protein foods, fed once daily, is appropriate.
Compatibility
This small pleco is peaceful and bottom-dwelling and prefers quiet tank mates. Tetras and corydoras are suitable, while other territorial plecos are best avoided.
Breeding
It is a cave-spawner. Members of the genus have been bred by hobbyists, though breeding is considered advanced.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern.