How does the typical substrate of the Zebra Pleco's domain differ from many other plecos?
Answer
Predominantly rocky with crevices and boulders
The preferred habitat for *Hypancistrus zebra* is characterized by a hard, rocky riverbed, featuring numerous crevices, large stones, and submerged boulders. This contrasts sharply with the preferences of many other catfish species, which often favor soft, muddy, or silty substrates common in slower-moving waters. The rocky structure provides essential physical refuge from the strong currents and offers surfaces upon which the pleco can graze. Their flattened body shape, or ventral profile, is specifically designed to lie flush against these hard surfaces, maximizing the effectiveness of their gripping mouth structure.
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