When should new food items be introduced to maximize consumption by nocturnal Zebra Plecos?
Answer
In the evening, after the main lights have dimmed
A critical management factor for feeding the shy, nocturnal Zebra Pleco is timing the food introduction to align with their peak activity cycle. These fish are most active and willing to search for food after the main aquarium lighting has been turned off for the night. Introducing new food items, especially vegetables or supplemental offerings, in the evening when the environment darkens substantially increases the probability that the *H. zebra* will locate and consume what is offered before faster-moving or more aggressive tank mates can consume it, or before the food settles and decays.
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