Species profile
King Tiger Pleco
Hypancistrus seideli
Peaceful
Moderate care
150 L minimum aquarium
10–14.5 cm adult size
Bottom
Can be kept singly
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
L066 was formally described in 2025 as Hypancistrus seideli. Keep L066 as a prominent alternative/trade identifier because it remains widely used.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
26–30 °C
pH
5.5–7.5
GH
2–15 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Moderate–high
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Can be kept singly
Tank zone
Bottom
Territory level
Moderate
Predation risk
None
Bioload factor
2
Usually peaceful towards midwater fish but males can be territorial with other Hypancistrus around caves. Extra floor space and multiple visual barriers reduce conflict.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Yes
Shrimp safe
Yes
Snail safe
Yes
Cave breeder
Yes
Digs substrate
No
Jump risk
Low
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
Not yet documented
Diet type
Omnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
150 L
Minimum footprint
90 × 40 cm
Accepted scientific name
Hypancistrus seideli
Alternative names
King Tiger Pleco, L066, L333 (included within described species)
Native range
Brazil, Rio Xingu basin.
Natural habitat
Warm Xingu-style habitat with high dissolved oxygen, robust filtration, rock/wood crevices and multiple caves. Maintain current without removing all sheltered resting areas.
Diet & feeding
Protein-biased omnivore. Use quality sinking carnivore/omnivore foods, insect/crustacean-based frozen foods and some plant matter; do not rely on algae as the main diet.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Mature males usually develop stronger odontodes and a broader, more angular head; females tend to be fuller through the abdomen.
Breeding
Cave spawner. The male guards eggs and larvae in a tight cave; provide several appropriately sized caves if more than one adult is kept.