L236 Super White - (Hypancistrus seideli)

L236 Super White Pleco (Hypancistrus seideli)

Quick Facts

• 📛 Common Name: L236 Super White Pleco (also known as Cracked Zebra Pleco)
• 🔬 Scientific Name: Hypancistrus seideli (L236) — sometimes associated with Hypancistrus seideli or unique tank strains.
• 🌍 Origin: Lower Amazon, Rio Xingu — likely lower main channel rather than Rio Iriri.

Size & Appearance

• 📏 Adult Size: Typically around 4–4.7″ (120 mm SL), occasionally up to 5–6″
• 🖤 Appearance: White base covered with thin, striking black lines—less dense and more elegant than other L-numbers; belly remains pristine white.

Behavior & Temperament

• 😇 Disposition: Peaceful and relatively shy; more active at night
• 🛡️ Territoriality: Not highly aggressive but may show territorial tendencies—especially during breeding—necessitating multiple hiding spots

Tank Requirements

• 🪨 Aquascape: Provide rocky caves, slates, and hiding structures; more caves than fish to minimize competition
• 🌊 Water Conditions: Warm (24–30 °C / 75–86 °F), well-oxygenated, with a moderate-to-strong current
• ⚗ Water Parameters: pH 6.6–7.6; conductivity low (under ~200 µS)
• 🐟 Tank Size: Minimum 20 gal for one; 80 cm+ tank preferred for groups

Diet & Feeding

• 🍽 Feeding Type: Omnivorous with a preference for meaty foods (bloodworms, gammarus, brine shrimp); also accepts spirulina tabs and high-protein commercial foods.

Breeding & Care Notes

• ⚙ Breeding: Cave spawner; males guard eggs and fry. Fry rearing requires frequent feeding and clean conditions.
• 💡 Special Thoughts: “Super White” strains are selectively line-bred for bold patterns—may carry premium cost and rare availability.

Summary Table