In the case where you have a chance to see the fishes when they have settled down, their teritorrial behaviour can also yield some clues. But in a shop where the fishes are stressed, this will not be a very accurate indicator. Here's is a picture of a bunch of them for comparison.įrom left to right: Female, Male, Male, Female, Maleīesides the above three characteristics, some have also indicated that males are suppose to be darker than females. The interopercular odontodes on the female are not as well developed as that of the male, as such, females can also look "pinched" just where the gills are. However, the top view picture of the male above obviously have a broader head than the female. Males also have a tendency to have a broader head, although this will be quite a challenge to ascertain. Take note of the pectoral fins as well.įemale L046 Hypancistrus zebra 03. Here are a few pictures of Zebra Plecos with odontodes growth at the cheek. Males will have more odontodes on the pectoral fins as well as odontodes coming out of the cheek, almost reaching the pectoral fins. Odontodes growthįemales do have fewer odontodes (spines) on the pectoral fins. As such, other characteristics need to be taken into consideration.įemale L046 Hypancistrus zebra 02. Males usually build up their reserves during spawning season. Well fed males can confuse hobbyists who is trying to sex them. Females are slighty paunchy, with the patterns forum a 'U' shape. Males are normally more streamline, with the patterns forming a 'V' shape. Instead, it will be easier to view the specimen from above and see if the said specimen has a wider, fuller abdomen. But this is something rather difficult to eyeball, especially when there are no other references. Body Shapeįemales are suppose to have more curved pectoral fins. In general, there are 3 main areas where one can visually sex these beauties. Anything smaller will be a tough challenge to sex accurately. Here is a quick guide to sexing matured species or sub adult (6-7 cm) for those considering this species. Whilst there is no one sure tell tale sign of sexing these fishes, a combination of characteristics will improve your chances of making an educated guess. The key is, do we have a female amongst the bunch? Females and subdominant males are very similar and as such, the cause of major confusion. Most of us do not have a problem identifying a male.
It's popularity (or should I say rarity) shot through the roof when restrictions were imposed on it's export, much like the famed Betta macrostoma. I know a lot of folks are still interested in Hypancistrus zebra or more commonly known as the Zebra Pleco. L046 Hypancistrus zebra - Juvenile specimen
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