Description
The aquarium should be mature, with various pieces of smooth rockwork arranged to create lots of small nooks and crannies. There should be brisk water movement and a high level of oxygenation, perhaps provided by a river-tank manifold or powerheads (in addition to the current generated by the filtration). These peaceful bottom-dwellers require warmer than average water temperatures and will not do well below 26°C. Ample hiding places/visual barriers amongst the decor will enable you to keep a group of these fish together and will obviously further your chances of breeding them. Zebra Plecs are fairly territorial with similar species, so provide plenty of caves to avoid conflicts. Tankmates must be small and peaceful, and able to thrive in warm, fast-flowing water. As Zebras do not compete well for food, avoid keeping with fish that are boisterous at feeding times. These fish are largely carnivorous and will not make any impact on algae. Ensure that regular partial water changes are carried out as these catfish will not tolerate an elevated nitrate level.
