Here’s a clear, practical care guide for the L400 Pleco (Hypancistrus sp. L400) — a beautiful, smaller Loricariid known for its striking black and white stripes.
 
 
 
 
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Overview
 
 
Scientific name: Hypancistrus sp. L400
Common names: L400 Pleco, Zebra-like Hypancistrus
Origin: Rio Tapajós, Brazil (Amazon Basin)
Adult size: Around 9–10 cm (3.5–4 in)
Lifespan: 8–10 years with good care
Temperament: Peaceful, shy
 
 
 
 
 
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Tank Requirements
 
 
Tank size: Minimum 60 litres (larger is better for groups)
Water temperature: 26–30°C (79–86°F)
pH: 6.0–7.5
Hardness: Soft to moderately hard (2–12 dGH)
Filtration: Strong and well-oxygenated — they come from fast-flowing rivers
Flow: Moderate to strong current with high oxygen levels
 
 
 
 
 
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Setup
 
 
Use sand or smooth gravel substrate
Add driftwood, caves, and rockwork for hiding — they love crevices
Dim lighting or provide shaded areas
Frequent water changes (30–40% weekly) to maintain water quality
 
 
 
 
 
🍽️ 
Diet
 
 
Omnivorous with a preference for meaty foods
Offer:
Sinking carnivore pellets or wafers
Frozen or live foods (bloodworm, brine shrimp, mysis)
Occasional veg (blanched courgette, cucumber)
 
Avoid letting them starve — they’re not heavy algae eaters like some other plecs
 
 
 
 
 
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Behaviour and Tankmates
 
 
Peaceful with other calm species
Best with small tetras, rasboras, corydoras, or other peaceful plecs
Males may be territorial over caves when breeding
Prefer to be kept in small groups if space allows
 
 
 
 
 
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Breeding
 
 
Similar to other Hypancistrus:
Males guard eggs in a cave
Condition with high-quality food and warm, soft water
Trigger spawning with cooler water changes and strong flow
Eggs hatch in about a week