What do *Hypancistrus zebra* prefer over heavy grazing on hard surfaces?

Biofilm and detritus

The care requirements for the Zebra Pleco stem from its natural feeding behaviors observed in the Xingu River basin. These fish are characterized as nocturnal scavengers whose primary foraging activity targets softer materials rather than vigorously scraping algae off rocks or glass. Specifically, their diet naturally consists of biofilm and detritus, which are decomposing organic materials found in their environment. This contrasts sharply with other pleco types, such as the common *Pterygoplichthys* species, which actively graze on algae sheets and firmer plant matter. Recognizing this preference for softer, organic material over tough grazing is fundamental to providing appropriate long-term nutrition for *H. zebra*.