Ich can infect entire tanks if not treated. Zebra Plecostomus Image Credit: Pavaphon Supanantananont, Shutterstock These are striped plecos that resemble a pattern similar to a zebra, hence their name zebra plecos. Ich is a common fish parasite and causes white patches on fish.

For example, pollution, nitrite, ammonium, and chlorine levels affect the health of fish and are common sources of illness for fish. Hardy fish like clown plecos aren’t affected by specific diseases, but low water quality and unclean conditions make fish susceptible to freshwater illnesses. Tanks should also be large enough to give adequate space to all fish and prevent fighting or disease. Water testing kits are useful in monitoring mineral and chemical levels. For all tanks, proper water testing and quality are important. Tank Conditions Water type: Soft, fresh water Tank size: 20 gallons minimum Water temperature: 73–82☏ (23- 28☌) Substrate: Sand, smooth pebbles Tank setup: Driftwood, non-creeping plants, caves, castles Acidity: 6.0–8.0 pH Water hardness: 8–10 dGH Filter: Fast, mechanical filtration Bubbler: Recommended but not neededĬlean the tank regularly and use mechanical filters to clear out any waste that is produced by the clown pleco. RECOMMENDED TANK PARAMETERS: Temperature: 75 - 82 F (24 - 28 C) pH: 6.4 - 7.6 (flexible as long as sudden changes are avoided) KH: 6 - 10 dKH Minimum tank size: 20 gallons CARE GUIDELINES: Diet: Omnivorous, so a varied diet is necessary. If there are plants that require sunlight, make sure to provide plenty of shady places like caves or castles. The Colombian Zebra Pleco is an aquarium fish with a unique appearance as well as plenty of personality. Tanks shouldn’t be put in direct sunlight, as bright light causes stress. Mailed catfish are recommended for socialization and, depending on the water parameters, female fighting fish, danios, emperor tetras, transverse banded.

Brown zebra pleco