The zebra pleco, Hypancistrus zebra, is one of the flashiest and most memorable freshwater fish in the world. Although they have a very striking pattern, the fish has not become widely popular because it’s not exactly the type of fish you plop into a community tank. Zebra plecos are a very cautious species which quickly retreat from sudden movements of fish and people, making them unable to compete with common aquarium species. Many aquarists complain that they never see their zebra plecos even in tanks dedicated to L46 and we believe that is because the aquarium has to fulfill some requirements to make Hypancistrus zebra feel most comfortable. Probably the most overlooked need of zebra plecos is the need for moderate light; it doesn’t have to be very dark but they can see bright lights shining overhead so we recommend just one fluorescent tube or LEDs. Also, although it is well known that shy fish need dither fish to feel comfortable coming out, if you want to dither your zebras you should use species that make sense to zebra plecos like corydoras and ottocinclus.  Finally, it goes without saying that zebra plecos need hiding spaces and cover to feel comfortable. If you give L46 an endless matrix of caves and holes of course your viewing experience will be impaired. The zebra plecotope above tries to provide areas of cover which are still visible to the aquarium viewer such as the large overhanging ledge. If you provide Hypancistrus with moderate light, the right kind of dither fish and creative hiding places your colony will reward you with plenty of time roaming around out in the open places of your aquarium where they can easily be seen.