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Scientific Name: Hypancistrus debilittera
Common Name: L129, Colombian Zebra Pleco
The Hypancistrus debilittera, commonly known as L129 or Colombian Zebra Pleco, is a small ornamental fish species native to the Orinoco River in Venezuela. It features a dark brown body with fine yellowish stripes, relatively large eyes, and a small mouth typical of its genus. It reaches an adult size of approximately 7 cm.
Best suited for smaller aquariums, this peaceful bottom-dweller thrives in water with a pH between 6.4 and 7.6 and temperatures from 24°C to 28°C. It is an omnivore, favouring meaty foods like bloodworms, gammarus, and brine shrimp, though it also accepts commercial foods like Spirulina tablets.
Males are more territorial and can be distinguished by their longer odontodes. Breeding occurs in caves, with the male guarding the eggs until hatching. Raising the fry is generally straightforward under proper conditions.
Tank mates: Small tetras, Corydoras, and similarly peaceful small fish.
Natural range: South America – Venezuela, Orinoco River.