L236 Super White Pleco (Hypancistrus sp.) 3-3.5 cm

🎨 Appearance

The Super White Hypancistrus pleco is renowned for its striking high-contrast black and white coloration. Unlike the standard L236, the Super White variant features a more pronounced white base with minimal black markings, creating a bold and highly sought-after pattern. Their bodies are adorned with fine black lines and spots, resembling a cracked zebra pattern, which is where they get their common name.

🏠 Habitat & Tank Setup

• Tank Size: Minimum of 30 gallons (113 liters) for a single individual; larger tanks are recommended for multiple specimens to reduce territorial disputes.

• Water Parameters:

  • Temperature: 79–86°F (26–30°C)

  • pH: 6.0–7.5

  • Hardness: Soft to moderately hard

• Filtration: Strong filtration is essential to maintain water quality, as these plecos prefer well-oxygenated environments.

• Substrate: Smooth gravel or fine sand to prevent damage to their delicate barbels.

• Decor: Provide plenty of hiding spots using driftwood, caves, and rocks. These plecos are nocturnal and appreciate secure retreats during the day.

🍽️ Diet & Feeding

The Super White Hypancistrus is primarily carnivorous but will accept a variety of foods:

• Primary Diet: Live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and blackworms.

• Supplementary Foods: High-quality sinking pellets, insect meal granules, and occasional vegetable matter like blanched zucchini or cucumber.

• Feeding Tips: As nocturnal feeders, it's best to offer food after lights out to ensure they receive adequate nutrition. 

🧠 Behavior & Compatibility

• Activity: Nocturnal; hides during the day and becomes active at night.

• Social Behavior: Generally peaceful but may become territorial with age, especially towards other bottom-dwelling fish.

• Tankmates: Suitable for large community tanks with other peaceful to semi-aggressive large fish. Avoid housing with overly aggressive species or other plecos that may compete for hiding spots.