Hypancistrus sp. (L260)
Common Names:
Queen Arabesque Pleco
Family:
Loricariidae
Category:
Catfish_and_Bottom_Feeders
Distribution:
South America Rio Tapajosl Rio Brazil
Main Ecosystem:
River
Temperament:
Peaceful
Very peaceful, but is not good at competing for food so choose non aggressive tank mates.
Diet:
Omnivore;
Care:
More on the carnivore than herbivore side. They have rows of small teeth in the mouth which suggest that they are not a good algae eater this is true mine do nothing to control algae in my tanks but will eat vegetable based foods, along with bloodworm.I feed mine on N.L.S. h2o stable wafers and they love it.
These fish enjoy a rocky aqua-scape with lots of caves and hiding places.
As with any fancy pleco water movement and a good filtration system are needed.
Water Conditions
Temperature: 26C - 30C (79F - 86F)
P.H 6.4 - 7.6
Hardness: 2 - 15 dH
Potential Size:
Male: [8cm] 3" TO 3 1/2"
Female: [ 6cm] 2" TO 2/12'
Water Region:
Bottom;
Activity:
Nocturnal;
Gender:
Females tend to be wider across the ventral area. When fully mature. Males have marked undersides, while females tend to have entirely white bellies. This, however, is a generalization, with multiple females; belly coloration may or may not be evident. Lone males display a dominant status. Males also have thicker primary pectoral rays.
Breeding:
A moderate to hard pleco to care for if one intends to spawn the species. A tight fitting cave with a dark interior is preferred. Rectangular slate/brick/tile caves tend to yield the best results. I use a breeding cave. Fish should be conditioned prior to spawning on a protein rich diet. Near perfect water quality is essential not only for the survival of the fish itself, but to induce spawning.
Main Colors:
Black, White
Comments:
One of the most beautiful of the L number loricariid to have in your tank, in my opinion. Here is a not too good shot of my dominate female.
