Overview
The L066 King Tiger Pleco (Hypancistrus seideli) is a striking and highly sought-after species from Brazil’s Rio Xingu, famous for its black-and-white striping and elegant, compact form. Unlike most plecos that graze primarily on algae, this species thrives on a protein-based diet and prefers shaded, fast-flowing habitats.
A perfect fit for aquarists who enjoy natural river-style aquascapes, this peaceful bottom dweller brings authentic South American character to any freshwater tank.
Specifications
| Species | Hypancistrus seideli |
|---|---|
| Common Name | King Tiger Pleco |
| Origin | Rio Xingu, Brazil |
| Size (adult) | 3-4 inches |
| Diet | Protein-based |
| Water Conditions | Soft, slightly acidic, flowing water |
| Behavior | Peaceful, bottom-dwelling |
FAQ
What kind of diet does the King Tiger Pleco require?
The King Tiger Pleco thrives on a protein-based diet and should not be fed primarily algae. It benefits from high-quality sinking pellets, frozen or live protein sources such as bloodworms or brine shrimp.
Is this pleco suitable for a community tank?
Yes, the King Tiger Pleco is peaceful and generally compatible with other non-aggressive fish in a well-maintained community tank, provided there is adequate space and strong water flow.
What water parameters does it prefer?
This species prefers soft, slightly acidic water with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5 and a temperature range of 72–78°F. It also requires flowing water conditions to mimic its natural habitat.




Jacob White –
The King Tiger Pleco is a stunning addition to my tank. Its black and white pattern is very eye-catching and it’s very calm. I feed it protein-based food daily and it’s active at the bottom. The water flow in my tank matches its natural habitat, and it seems happy and healthy.
Anne Wallace –
I was impressed by how quickly it adapted to my tank. It doesn’t eat algae like other plecos, so I had to adjust my feeding routine. Now I feed it bloodworms twice a week. It’s a beautiful fish and fits well in my river-style setup.
Bella Sutherland –
The fish arrived alive and in good condition. It’s very active and stays near the substrate. I’ve noticed it’s not aggressive and doesn’t bother other fish. The only thing I changed was the water flow, and now it’s thriving.