L333 Catfish, King Tiger Pleco 4cm

L333 King Tiger Pleco

L-number plecos have a dedicated following among aquarists due to their diversity and striking appearances. These catfish are identified numerically because many species have yet to receive an official trade name. The "L" stands for Loricariidae, the family that encompasses plecos, and the numbering system likely reflects the order in which they were discovered. The L333 King Tiger Pleco is one of the most common yet sought-after species, prized for its bold patterning and manageable size. While L-number plecos are more common in other parts of the world, their availability in Australia is still growing, making them a prized addition to any collection.

The L333 King Tiger Pleco is easily recognised by its striking black and white maze-like patterning, which runs across its entire body and fins. Unlike some pleco species that fade with age, the contrast of the King Tiger Pleco remains sharp, making it a standout in any aquarium. Their compact size of around 15 cm makes them well-suited for a range of setups, from species-only breeding tanks to community aquariums. Unlike many other plecos, they are not heavy wood grazers and require a more protein-rich diet, similar to other members of the Hypancistrus genus. They are mostly nocturnal, spending much of their time hidden among driftwood and caves, emerging at night to forage.

Breeding L333 King Tiger Plecos in captivity is very achievable with the right conditions. They are cave spawners, meaning males guard the entrance of a breeding cave while the female lays eggs inside. The key to successful breeding is maintaining stable water conditions and providing multiple pleco caves to encourage natural spawning behaviour. Males tend to develop larger odontodes (bristle-like spines) on their pectoral fins and cheeks, whereas females appear rounder when full of eggs. Once eggs hatch, the male continues to protect the fry until they are free-swimming.

Tank Recommendations for your L333 King Tiger Pleco

L333 King Tiger Plecos reach around 15 cm, so a minimum tank size of 150 litres is recommended. A larger tank is ideal for keeping multiple individuals or for breeding groups. They thrive in aquariums with driftwood, rock caves, and densely planted areas, as they prefer to remain hidden during daylight hours. Sand or smooth gravel substrates are ideal, as they are bottom dwellers that enjoy sifting through the substrate for food. Dim lighting or tannin-stained water can help replicate their natural environment and encourage more natural behaviour.

Suitable Tank Buddies

King Tiger Plecos are extremely peaceful, with only mild territorial behaviour among males during breeding.

Usually Compatible

Tetras, gouramis, Corydoras, angelfish, barbs, dwarf cichlids such as rams, and large peaceful cichlids such as Uaru or Severums.

Sometime Compatible

Semi-aggressive or territorial cichlids like Jack Dempseys, Firemouths, or Convict Cichlids. Tank size and structure will determine compatibility.

Rarely Compatible

Large aggressive species such as the Oscars, Green Terrors, and Jaguar Cichlids. These species may attempt to eat the pleco, which could end in death for both fish, as plecos' bony armour can become lodged in a predator's throat.

Feeding your L333 King Tiger Pleco

King Tiger Plecos are omnivores, but they lean more toward a protein-rich diet than most common pleco species. A high-quality sinking pleco wafer with a decent protein content is essential. Ensuring a high-quality diet is important, as poor-quality wafers can quickly foul the water and provide little nutritional value. Their diet should be supplemented with frozen or live foods such as bloodworms, blackworms, and brine shrimp. Although they do not rely heavily on wood as a food source, they may graze on driftwood occasionally. They will also accept blanched vegetables like zucchini and pumpkin, though their primary diet should focus on protein sources.