All fish / Loricariidae

Pearl Zebra Pleco

Hypancistrus margaritatus

Also known as l174, l-174, pearl pleco, margaritatus pleco, l 174, L174, ハイパンシストルス・マルガリタトゥス, 珍珠斑马异型

A small armoured catfish with a dark body covered in white or cream pearl-like spots, a pattern that varies from fish to fish. It is kept for its striking looks and modest adult size, making it a good choice for smaller warm-water setups.

Care at a glance

Care level

Moderate

Temperament

Peaceful

Adult size

8 cm

Temperature

26 to 31 °C

pH

6 to 7.5

Smallest tank

80 litres

Keep as

Singly or a small group with plenty of caves

Diet

Carnivore: sinking pellets, frozen bloodworm, brine shrimp, mysis and other meaty foods

Swims

Bottom of the tank

Lifespan

10 to 15 years

Water

Freshwater

Wild range

Brazil: lower Rio Xingu basin

Breeding

A cave spawner in which the male guards the eggs and larvae inside a snug tube or cave. It has been bred in captivity, but needs warm, clean, well-oxygenated water and mature adults.

Good to know

Needs strong flow, high oxygen and warm temperatures, so avoid cool community tanks. Brazil restricts export of Xingu plecos, so wild stock is scarce and captive-bred fish are preferable.