King Tiger Pleco (Hypancistrus sp. L333) Care Guide

A striking small pleco from Brazil's Rio Xingu with bold black and white or cream banding and maze-like patterns.

Overview

Hypancistrus sp. L333 is a species in the family Loricariidae. A striking small pleco from Brazil's Rio Xingu with bold black and white or cream banding and maze-like patterns. Unlike most plecos, this species is predominantly carnivorous and should be fed protein-rich foods rather than algae or vegetables. Its compact size makes it suitable for moderately sized aquariums.

Taxonomy

Family: Loricariidae
Genus: Hypancistrus
Scientific name: Hypancistrus sp. L333
Other names: L333, Hypancistrus sp. L333
Origin: South America

Habitat

Endemic to the Rio Xingu and Rio Tapajós basins of Brazil. Inhabits rocky rapids with strong, warm, oxygen-rich current. Traded under the L-number L333; like other Hypancistrus it is primarily carnivorous, feeding on small invertebrates and protein rather than wood or algae.

Tank requirements

Minimum tank volume: 120 L
Temperature: 26-30 °C
pH: 5.5-7
GH: 2-10 °dGH
Adult size: 10-12 cm
Lifespan: 8-12 years
Difficulty: intermediate

Diet

Classified as carnivore. Recommended feeding frequency: 1x daily. In captivity, offer a varied diet appropriate to the species — quality prepared foods supplemented with frozen or live items of suitable size.

Compatibility

Temperament: peaceful
Swimming level: bottom
Compatible tank mates: Small tetras, Corydoras, Apistogramma, Peaceful community fish
Avoid with: Other Hypancistrus, Large aggressive fish

Breeding

Breeding strategy: cave-spawner
Breeding difficulty: intermediate