L399 - Elegant Zebra Pleco (Hypancistrus seideli)
L399 - Elegant Zebra Pleco (Hypancistrus seideli) is backordered and will ship as soon as it is back in stock.
Delivery and Shipping
Delivery and Shipping
Product Refunds & Returns
- Returns can be processed within 14 days from purchase.
- To return products, they must be in original condition
- Shipping expenses are not refundable
- If your items have been damaged in shipping, please contact us within 24 hours of receipt with photos, and we will assist you.
Dead on Arrival (DOA) Policy – Shipped Orders Only
- We guarantee live arrival on all shipped livestock when:
- The package is received on the first delivery attempt.
- Clear photos of the unopened shipping bag and deceased animal are emailed to us within 2 hours of delivery confirmation.
- If these conditions are met, we will provide a replacement or store credit. Shipping charges are non-refundable.
7-Day Livestock Guarantee (Local & Shipped Orders)
- We guarantee our livestock for 7 days from purchase/delivery if our care recommendations and tank requirements were followed.
- Proof Required: We may require photos of the deceased animal, proof of purchase (receipt/order number), and/or a water sample from your tank for testing.
Livestock Refunds, Returns, & Surrenders
- Local customers may return livestock within 72 hours of purchase for a refund, provided the animal is alive and in original condition. Returns must be brought to the store; we do not provide pickup services.
L399 - Elegant Zebra Pleco (Hypancistrus seideli)
Description
Description
L399 is a highly sought-after Xingu River pleco from Brazil. Historically known as Hypancistrus sp. L399, it was formally included in the Hypancistrus seideli species in 2025, along with several related L-numbers including L333, L287, and L400.
Quick Profile
- Scientific Name: Hypancistrus seideli (formerly L399)
- Common Names: L399, Elegant Zebra Pleco, King Tiger Pleco variant
- Origin: Brazil (Belo Monte region)
- Adult Size: 12-15 cm (5-6 inches)
- Temperature: 26-30°C (79-86°F)
- pH: 6.5-7.5
- Temperament: Peaceful, somewhat shy bottom-dweller
Appearance
L399 is famous for its striking:
- White to cream base color
- Black worm-like or maze-like markings
- Highly variable patterns between individuals
- Large eyes and elongated body
Some specimens look almost zebra-like, while others show broken lines and spotting.
Aquarium Requirements
Best kept in:
- 30+ gallon aquariums for juveniles
- 50+ gallons for breeding groups
- Strong filtration and high oxygen levels
- Plenty of caves, rocks, and driftwood
- Warm flowing water similar to the Xingu River habitat
Feeding
Unlike many plecos, L399 is not primarily an algae eater.
Recommended foods:
- Sinking carnivore pellets
- Brine shrimp
- Blackworms
- High-protein wafers
- Occasional vegetable matter
They are considered omnivores with a strong preference for meaty foods.
Breeding
- Cave spawner
- Male guards eggs and fry
- Typical spawns contain 20-30 eggs
- Widely bred in captivity by specialist pleco breeders
Specifications
Specifications
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CategoryPlecos
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Species TypePleco
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Minimum Tank Size20 Gallons
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Water pH LevelAcidic, Neutral
-
Habitat PreferenceDriftwood, Rocky Tanks, Hiding Spots, Planted Tanks
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BehaviourCommunity Fish, Bottom-Dwelling, Algae Eaters, Solitary
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