L-066 KING TIGER PLECO

L066 King Tiger Pleco Care Guide

Scientific Name: Hypancistrus sp. (L066)

Common Name: King Tiger Pleco

L-number: L066

Origin: Lower Rio Xingu, Brazil

Maximum Size: 5.5 – 6.5 inches (14–16.5 cm)

Lifespan: 8–12 years

Temperament: Peaceful but territorial

Difficulty: Moderate

Diet: Omnivore with preference for protein

🐟 Overview

The King Tiger Pleco is a compact, bold-patterned species known for its maze-like black and white striping — often likened to a tiger's, but with a regal twist. This Hypancistrus species is a favorite among aquascapers for its manageable size, stunning contrast, and peaceful nature. It thrives in warm, oxygen-rich waters and does well in well-planned community tanks.

🏠 Tank Setup

Habitat Tips:

• Mimic the rocky crevices of the Xingu River with stacked stones and shaded hideouts.

• Provide at least one cave per pleco, especially when housing multiples.

• Maintain strong water flow using powerheads or spray bars.

🍽️ Feeding & Diet

King Tigers are opportunistic omnivores that lean toward protein-rich foods but will graze on plant matter and biofilm.

Staple Foods:

• Sinking carnivore pellets

• Frozen bloodworms, mysis shrimp, or blackworms

• Occasional vegetables: blanched zucchini, shelled peas

• Algae wafers (as a supplement, not primary)

Feed once or twice daily, preferably in the evening when they become more active. Remove uneaten food to maintain water quality.

🤝 Behavior & Compatibility

• Peaceful, though males can be territorial with other plecos — especially in confined areas.

• Compatible with calm tetras, dwarf cichlids, rasboras, or Corydoras.

• Active mostly at dawn, dusk, and night. May be visible during the day if the environment is calm and dimly lit.

🐣 Breeding Info

King Tiger Plecos have been successfully bred in aquariums:

• Use 1 male with 1–2 females in a quiet tank with multiple narrow caves.

• Trigger spawning by simulating rainy season: perform large, cool water changes and increase flow slightly.

• Males guard the eggs, which hatch in about 6–8 days.

• Fry consume yolk sacs for ~5 days, then accept crushed carnivore pellets or baby brine shrimp.

High water quality is critical for both egg and fry survival.

⚠️ Care Tips

• Perform 30–50% weekly water changes to keep parameters stable.

• Avoid copper-based medications — toxic to plecos.

• Do not house with overly aggressive or fast-feeding tankmates that may outcompete them.

⭐ Interesting Facts

• L066 is often confused with L333 due to similar striping, but L066 generally has thinner, more angular lines.

• Their patterns become more intricate as they mature.

• King Tiger Plecos are among the most popular "designer Hypancistrus" species in the hobby due to their look and breedability.

✅ Summary

The L066 King Tiger Pleco is a beautiful, mid-sized Hypancistrus that blends striking aesthetics with practical compatibility. With its peaceful nature, manageable size, and breeding potential, it's a fantastic pleco for both experienced aquarists and advanced beginners looking for a showpiece bottom-dweller that’s both hardy and rewarding.