Description
The Tiger Pleco (L066) belongs to the Hypancistrus genus. The hardy nature makes it easy for aquarists to create a suitable habitat for this fish without much effort. If you’re looking to build up a community fish tank with suitable candidates, Tiger Plecos should definitely feature on your list of must-have species.
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Features of King Tiger Pleco:
- It has striped pattern that covers all parts of its body down to its fins
- Tiger Plecos are primarily available in a striking black and white combination
- Tiger Pleco species native to the Amazon Basin, Brazil
- Grows to 12cm
The Best Aquarium Size for King Tiger Pleco:
King Tiger Pleco can do well in a tank of 100L or larger. However, it depends on the size of your pleco. Also, if you want to set up a community tank, you have to increase the tank size.
Suitable aquariums to consider include:
Browse our entire Aquarium Tank Selection here.
Tank Mate Compatibility:
The Tiger Pleco can be kept in community tanks but are territorial towards their own species. They are peaceful towards other peaceful smaller species. If keeping multiple together, ensure plenty of space and provide caves and territories for each to claim. Avoid other larger or more active bottom-dwellers, because of the passive nature of the Tiger Pleco, it’s often out-competed for food.
Here are some great tank mates:
Diet:
Tiger Plecos are carnivores and naturally feed on insects and tiny crustaceans in the wild. Feed them live or frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, and insect larvae. They will readily accept sinking pellets & wafers.
Check out our extensive range of aquarium fish foods.
Pleco Tank Setup:
Aquarium Filtration
Water quality is vital. This fish produces a large amount of waste, so an excellent filter is essential. This species also enjoy high water flow. Cannister filters are a great option for medium to large aquariums. Ensure your filter has an adequate flow rate for your aquarium size.
Shop our comprehensive range of aquarium filters here.
Aquarium Heater
This pleco enjoys temperatures between 25 - 28° C. To manage stable water temperatures, we recommend installing a reliable aquarium heater and always monitor with an additional thermometer.
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Aquarium Plants
There are no strict cultivars that these fish prefer. So, get creative and add a variety of plants that fit this environment. Floating plants or large-leaved plants like java fern are all good choices for your pleco tank. Pleco's enjoy shaded areas and places to hide, this makes them feel safe.
Interested in live plants for your aquariums? Browse live plants here.
Aquarium Decorations
These cave-dwellers will appreciate a replication of their natural habitat, and that means you have the option of adding rock structures, pleco caves, and driftwood. Creating caves enables your fish to feel safe and claim territory.
After more nice quality decorations? Check our Aquarium Driftwood Ornaments.
Aquarium Lighting
These fish enjoy lower light levels with lots of shade and dark spaces to hide. If keeping live plants, they will need sufficient light to grow.
Standard aquarium lighting is appropriate. Shop aquarium lighting here.
Aquarium Substrate
Aquarium sand is ideal for plecos as they are bottom dwellers and will forage through substrate for food. If you prefer to use gravel, use a smooth and rounded gravel to protect their bodies.
A variety of Substrates are available at Coburg Aquarium.
