Super White Pleco L236 (Hypancistrus sp. L236) Care Guide
Hypancistrus sp. L236 is a small white-bodied loricariid catfish from the Rio Xingu in Brazil, kept by collectors for its variable patterning.
Overview
Hypancistrus sp. L236 is an L-numbered loricariid catfish from the genus Hypancistrus. It originates from the Rio Xingu in Brazil, where it lives over dark, rocky substrate in highly oxygenated, warm and fast-flowing water. The trade name "Super White" refers to selectively bred white-bodied individuals; wild patterning is highly variable with thin dark lines.
Taxonomy
- Family: Loricariidae
- Genus: Hypancistrus
- Scientific name: Hypancistrus sp. L236
- Trade designations: L236, Super White
Habitat
The species inhabits the Rio Xingu, a clearwater tributary of the Amazon. The biotope is characterised by rocky substrate, strong current and warm, well-oxygenated water that can exceed 30 degrees Celsius. Conductivity in the natural range is low, reflecting soft, slightly acidic water.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 150 L
- Temperature: 28-31 degrees Celsius (82-88 degrees Fahrenheit)
- pH: 5.5-7.0
- GH: 1-10 dGH
- Water flow: moderate to strong, with high oxygenation
- Lifespan: 8-12 years
Provide more caves than the number of fish to reduce conflict, along with driftwood and subdued lighting. This is a shy, nocturnal species.
Diet
Hypancistrus species are carnivorous rather than algae-grazers. In the wild the diet consists mainly of insect larvae, worms and crustaceans. In the aquarium it accepts most commercial foods, but the diet should be protein-rich; frozen and sinking carnivore foods are appropriate.
Compatibility
The species is peaceful and bottom-dwelling. It can be kept with calm mid-water companions such as tetras and with Corydoras. Aggressive or strongly territorial plecos should be avoided, and keeping multiple Hypancistrus species together is discouraged because of hybridisation risk.
Breeding
Like other Hypancistrus, L236 is a cave-spawning species and breeding is considered advanced. Multiple caves and warm, well-oxygenated water support reproduction.