L333 Maze Zebra Pleco – Hypancistrus sp.

The L333 Maze Zebra Pleco (Hypancistrus sp. "L333") is one of the most beautiful and popular L-catfish from the Rio Xingu in Brazil. With its striking black and white striped pattern, reminiscent of a labyrinth, it is an absolute eye-catcher in any aquarium.

The L333 is a peaceful, territorial catfish that mainly stays in hiding places and is mostly active at dusk. It is one of the carnivorous armored catfish and prefers protein-rich food. Thanks to its peaceful nature, it is ideally suited for community aquariums with calm tankmates.

🌿 Characteristics & Husbandry:
🐠 Fish size: S/M (4–5 cm)
🌎 Origin: Brazil (Rio Xingu) – Wild caught/Bred
🌡️ Temperature: 26–30 °C
💧 pH value: 6.0–7.5
⚖️ Total hardness: up to 15 °dGH
🐟 Social behavior: Peaceful, territorial towards conspecifics
🌾 Aquarium: From 100 l, with caves, stones, roots & slight current

🍽️ Feeding:
The L333 Maze Zebra Pleco prefers protein-rich foods such as frozen and live foods (e.g., Artemia, Mysis, mussel meat). Additionally, it will also accept tablets, granular food, and occasionally plant-based components. A varied diet supports health and color contrast.

💡 Tip:
The L333 loves warm, oxygen-rich aquariums with a slight current. Provide several caves so the animals can retreat and establish their territories – especially important for breeding groups.

👉 Conclusion:
The L333 Maze Zebra Pleco (Hypancistrus sp. "L333") is a rare, strikingly patterned L-catfish from the Rio Xingu – perfect for lovers of elegant ornamental catfish and structured aquarium landscapes.