King Tiger Pleco

The King Tiger Pleco has its original habitat in the Rio Xingu in Brazil and belongs to the family of plecos. Characteristic and eponymous for the King Tiger Pleco is its beautiful markings, which consist of black bands on a snow-white base color and are reminiscent of a tiger pattern in some animals.

Care in the aquarium

In the aquarium, the King Tiger Pleco, which can grow up to 15cm long, feels most comfortable in the company of its conspecifics. Due to its size and recommended group keeping of 5 animals or more, the aquarium volume should be at least 160 liters. The water should be acidic and rich in oxygen and have a temperature between 24 and 30°C. The substrate should be relatively fine and ideally dark. Sand, non-sharp gravel or soil are good options for this. Larger stones, planted roots and caves or tubes provide hiding places and give the pleco a feeling of security. Other peaceful and not too hectic fish are suitable for socialization.

Feeding

As an omnivore, the King Tiger Pleco is not very difficult to feed. Live and frozen food as well as suitable tablet or granulate food are ideal for this. Young animals can also be fed green fodder, but older animals are not interested in it.

Sexual characteristics and breeding

The females of the King Tiger Pleco usually remain a little smaller and are a little fuller than their male counterparts. Males, on the other hand, have a wider head and longer spines on the first pectoral fin ray. Breeding in an aquarium is possible and not too difficult. Increased water changes and a slight reduction in the pH value can stimulate the willingness to spawn. As cave breeders, plecos need catfish caves of the right size to lay their eggs – ideally those with only one opening. The male takes care of the brood until the fish larvae swim freely. These can be fed with dusty food or fine dry food as well as with green food.