L333 King Tiger Pleco
Hypancistrus sp. L333
Also known as L333, King Tiger Pleco L333, L333 Pleco
Animalia›Chordata›Siluriformes›Loricariidae
The L333 King Tiger Pleco is a stunning and highly sought-after species known for its bold black and white striped pattern that resembles a tiger. This is a nocturnal, cave-dwelling pleco that requires excellent water quality and plenty of hiding spaces to thrive in captivity. Due to their specialized care requirements and territorial nature, they are best suited for experienced aquarists.
At a glance
- Size
- 5 in
- 13 cm
- Min tank
- 40 gal
- 151 L
- Temp
- 75–82°F
- 24–28°C
- pH
- 6.0-7.0
- GH
- 71–143 ppm
- 4–8 dGH
- Temperament
- Semi-aggressive
- Swims
- Bottom
- Lifespan
- 10-15 yrs
Ammonia 0 ppm and nitrate under 20 ppm.
Care
Diet
Feed high-quality sinking pellets, algae wafers, and fresh vegetables such as zucchini and cucumber 3-4 times weekly. Supplement with occasional protein sources like bloodworms or small crustaceans. Feed primarily in the evening as they are nocturnal feeders.
Behavior
L333 King Tiger Plecos are nocturnal and spend most daylight hours hidden in caves or under driftwood. They are solitary and territorial, becoming aggressive toward other plecos and bottom-dwellers as they mature. They are generally peaceful toward other fish species but may uproot plants and consume soft wood.
Breeding
Breeding in captivity is extremely difficult and rarely achieved by hobbyists. Males are highly territorial and will guard cave entrances aggressively. Successful breeding requires pristine water conditions, multiple cave options, and careful pairing of compatible individuals. Fry are difficult to raise and require specialized foods.
Tank mates
See all 5Small, peaceful fish that occupy upper water column and won't compete with pleco
Similar to neon tetras; peaceful and occupy different water zones
Both are bottom-dwellers; may compete for food and space despite small size
Both plecos are territorial; only compatible if tank is very large with multiple caves
Peaceful schooling fish that won't interfere with pleco's nocturnal behavior
Member photos
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Common diseases 4Ich (Ichthyophthirius multifiliis), Fin Rot, Bacterial Infection, Parasitic Infection
Ich (Ichthyophthirius multifiliis)
White spots on body and fins, rapid breathing, lethargy, rubbing against objects
Increase temperature gradually to 28-30°C (82-86°F), perform frequent water changes, use aquarium salt or ich medication; maintain excellent water quality
Fin Rot
Frayed or deteriorating fins, discoloration at fin edges, lethargy
Perform 50% water changes every 2-3 days, improve water quality, use antibacterial medication if severe, ensure adequate hiding spaces to reduce stress
Bacterial Infection
Open sores, ulcers on body, cloudy eyes, loss of appetite, behavioral changes
Isolate affected fish if possible, perform frequent water changes, use broad-spectrum antibiotic medication, maintain pristine water conditions
Parasitic Infection
Excessive scratching, weight loss despite feeding, visible parasites, clamped fins
Use anti-parasitic medication, perform water changes, quarantine if possible, improve water quality and reduce stress through adequate hiding spaces
Legality
No state or federal restrictions on record.
Not legal advice, and possibly incomplete or out of date. Rules vary by state and change over time; check with your state wildlife or agriculture agency before buying, keeping or shipping it.
The care information here is written with AI help, so it can contain mistakes. Spot one? Tell us and we'll fix it.
At a glance
- Size
- 5 in13 cm
- Min tank
- 40 gal151 L
- Temp
- 75–82°F24–28°C
- pH
- 6.0-7.0
- GH
- 71–143 ppm4–8 dGH
- Temperament
- Semi-aggressive
- Swims
- Bottom
- Lifespan
- 10-15 yrs
Ammonia 0 ppm and nitrate under 20 ppm.
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