Description

Ocelot Pleco (Hypancistrus yudja, L174)

Species Fact Sheet:

• Scientific Name: Hypancistrus yudja.
• Common Names: Ocelot Pleco, Panther Pleco, Spotted Zebra Pleco.
• Origin: Endemic to a very limited area in the Rio Xingu, Brazil, specifically within the Volta Grande region near Altamira.
• Natural Habitat: Inhabits deep, rocky areas of the river, often below 15 metres in depth, where the water is warm and the current is strong. 

• Adult Size: One of the smallest plecos, typically reaching only 7–8 cm (approx. 3 inches).
• Appearance: Features a compact body with a white-pinkish base colouration and a grey, ocelot-like pattern consisting of dark dots or irregular “worm-lines”.
• Distinguishing Features: Unlike many other Hypancistrus, this species has notably small eyes and a high-backed, sturdy shape.
• Sexual Dimorphism: Mature males develop longer odontodes (spiny growths) on their pectoral fin rays and gill covers (interopercular region). Males also have broader, more blocky heads, whereas females are rounder when viewed from above, especially when gravid. 

• Minimum Tank Size: A group of 5–6 individuals should be housed in an aquarium of at least 80–100 litres.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: Requires warm water, ideally 27–30°C (81–86°F).
  • pH Level: 5.5–7.5; slightly acidic to neutral.
  • Hardness: Soft to medium (GH 1–18); pristine water quality with high oxygenation is mandatory.
• Environment: The tank should feature a strong current and plenty of hiding places, such as ceramic caves, slate structures, and smooth rocks. Lighting should be kept dim to suit their shy, nocturnal habits. 

• Feeding: Primarily carnivorous. They should be fed protein-rich foods such as frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, and high-quality sinking carnivore pellets. They are not effective algae eaters.
• Social Behaviour: Peaceful but shy. They may be territorial toward other bottom-dwellers, so ensure there are more caves available than there are fish to prevent disputes.
• Compatibility: Suitable for community tanks with small, peaceful fish like tetras or Corydoras, provided the tank mates can tolerate the high temperatures required. 

• Breeding: They are cave spawners. The male guards the eggs and fry inside a cave. Clutches are typically small, consisting of 10–20 eggs.
• Conservation Status: This species is considered threatened due to habitat destruction caused by the Belo Monte dam. Because of its fragile status in the wild, captive breeding is highly encouraged within the hobby.

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