ZebraPleco.com • The complete Hypancistrus zebra resource

Hi everybody! How are you doing tonight? That's great.

So, I do not actually HAVE a zebra pleco, or even a tank to put them in at this point. But I still love them.

I wanted to know how you guys got into this hobby.
Things like:
What made you fall in love with zebra plecos?
Do you find them difficult to keep?
Do you find them difficult to breed?
Where did you get your first zebras from?

And most of all:
What advice would you give a newbie like myself in terms of starting up a zebra pleco tank? Is there a good process for newbies?

I've been reading like crazy on the subject and have high hopes of eventually breeding them. Any beginner advice is soooo welcome!!!

Thanks!
Kate

What made you fall in love with zebra plecos?
The very first time I saw a o=picture of one I knew I had to have them.

Do you find them difficult to keep?
If they are kept in proper species or suitable community tank, no.

Do you find them difficult to breed?
I was lucky and mine spawning in less than a week after I brought them home. They have now stopped and I assume it will take some work to get them restarted.

Where did you get your first zebras from?
First adult pair from a private owner/hobbyist who sold them to make room for L-134s. Next 3 from a retailer/wholesaler at about 1.5 inches and finally a proven breeding colony of 13 from a hobbyist who was forced to sell all his fish and tanks for business reasons.

What advice would you give a newbie like myself in terms of starting up a zebra pleco tank? Is there a good process for newbies?
Start out with a less expensive pleco such as bristlenose. They are a great and readily available small pleco to learn with. Then start saving your money for zebras.

What made you fall in love with zebra plecos?
The pictures!

Do you find them difficult to keep?
I just throw food in the tank before lights out and water changes weekly so no, not too difficult.

Do you find them difficult to breed?
Mine haven't gotten to the point of breeding yet.

Where did you get your first zebras from?
A breeder nearby.