Black & White Zebra Pleco L129 (Hypancistrus sp.)

Zebra-patterned Hypancistrus like this one break the usual pleco mold: unlike wood-eating relatives, this genus is mostly carnivorous, doing better on a protein-heavy diet than the algae wafers most plecos rely on. Wild populations from Brazil's Xingu River have also taken a serious hit from hydroelectric dam construction, part of why captive-bred zebra-pattern plecos have become so valued in the hobby.

Care level: Moderate · Temperament: Peaceful · Max size: ~3" · Min tank: 20 gal · Diet: Omnivore, sinking pellets + occasional frozen