L066 Xingu King Tiger Pleco (Hypancistrus seideli)

Overview

The L066 King Tiger Pleco (Hypancistrus seideli) is a striking and highly sought-after species from Brazil’s Rio Xingu, famous for its black-and-white striping and elegant, compact form. Unlike most plecos that graze primarily on algae, this species thrives on a protein-based diet and prefers shaded, fast-flowing habitats.

A perfect fit for aquarists who enjoy natural river-style aquascapes, this peaceful bottom dweller brings authentic South American character to any aquarium setup.

What We Love About This Fish:

• Distinctive Patterning: Beautiful black and white banding that varies from fish to fish.
• Compact Size: Averages 6 – 8 cm at purchase, making it well-suited to most community tanks.
• Peaceful & Reserved: Non-aggressive, ideal for planted aquariums.
• True River Behavior: Nocturnal by nature and enjoys resting in caves or under driftwood.

Natural Habitat:

The L066 King Tiger Pleco originates from the Rio Xingu, a clear and powerful tributary of the Amazon River in northern Brazil. The Xingu’s underwater landscape is a mosaic of rocky outcrops, driftwood branches, and sandy channels, with strong water flow and high oxygen levels.

During the wet season, the river floods the forest edge, carrying leaf litter and wood debris that enrich the water with tannins. In the dry season, the current intensifies, and the plecos shelter among rocks and driftwood, where they feed on meaty particles and biofilm.

In the aquarium, they remain nocturnal or crepuscular, resting during daylight hours. Providing ample hiding spots—such as caves, tunnels, and driftwood—helps them feel secure and encourages natural behavior.

Aquascaping:

• Plants: Hardy species such as Anubias, Java Fern, and Amazon Sword that attach easily to rock or wood.
• Hardscape: Combine smooth river stones, driftwood, and slate caves to create shaded areas and natural boundaries.
• Botanicals: Include Indian Almond Leaves, Casuarina Pods, or Catappa Bark from the Aquatic Arts Botanical Combo Pack to simulate blackwater conditions, add tannins, and promote beneficial biofilm.

Diet and Feeding:

The L066 King Tiger Pleco is a carnivorous species that benefits from a high-protein diet with minimal plant matter.
Feed a combination of:

• Sinking carnivore pellets or wafers designed for bottom dwellers.

• Frozen or live foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and blackworms.

• Occasional blanched vegetables like spinach or peas for dietary variety.

Feed primarily after lights-out to align with their natural nocturnal feeding rhythm. While they may nibble on biofilm, they will not clean your tank—regular aquarium maintenance remains essential.

Tank Mates and Compatibility:

A peaceful species that thrives alongside tetras, rasboras, dwarf cichlids, Corydoras, and shrimp. Avoid large, aggressive, or highly territorial bottom dwellers.
When keeping more than one pleco, ensure the tank includes multiple caves and shaded areas to define territory and prevent stress.

Shrimp Compatibility:

This species is compatible with most freshwater shrimp. Adult shrimp are typically ignored, though tiny fry may be disturbed while the pleco forages.
Providing dense plant cover, moss, or leaf litter ensures shrimp colonies remain safe and active.

Breeding:

Breeding occurs in tight-fitting caves or tubes, where males guard the eggs until hatching.
Maintain stable, warm, oxygen-rich water and offer a high-protein diet to promote spawning behavior.
Fry feed on biofilm and fine foods like crushed pellets or baby brine shrimp after becoming free-swimming.

Recommended Tank Parameters:

• Temperature: 78° - 84° F (25° - 29° C)
• pH: 6.5 - 7.5
• KH: 2 - 8 dKH
• Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons

Care Guidelines:

• Diet: Carnivorous; prefers protein-rich foods with occasional vegetable matter.
• Social Behavior: Peaceful bottom-dweller; mildly territorial toward similar species.
• Activity Level: Primarily nocturnal; prefers dim lighting and shaded cover.
• Origin: Wild-caught from the Rio Xingu, Brazil.
• Average Adult Size: 10 – 12 cm (4 – 5 inches)
• Average Purchase Size: 6 – 8 cm (2.5 – 3 inches)

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