BREEDING Zebra Plecos - Made 12 Babies!

[@KeepingFishSimple]

In Australia, Zebras are $750 AUD. We cannot import this fish into the country which limits the availability in the hobby. Thanks for watching 😁

[@HeyItsCeeJay]

That's wild! They are anywhere between $75‐150 USD here in Michigan

[@TedH71]

@@HeyItsCeeJay $300-$400 in Kansas.

[@lxlpauljameslxl]

$200-$300 in ny

[@hectorolivares5071]

2-300 in IA

[@geckopete]

They were only discovered in the late 80s/early 90s and already almost fished out of existence. It's now illegal to catch them in the wild as their number are so low and you also can not export them from Brazil.

[@markclayden7654]

Ive been breeding Zebras for quite a few years and you're doing the right thing. A week of frequent 50% water changes with cold water simulates rainfall in their natural habitat, and it really gets them going. Just cut back on the water changes, leave them alone to get on with it now and let them do what comes naturally. They make good parents and yeah, your first batch or two can be a bit hit and miss, but they'll get the hang of it, and once they start, it'll happen often. The babies are quite hardy so don't go OTT with them, they dont need it. I personally wouldnt seperate the babies at such a young age, but if it works for you, go for it. just make sure you move them to somewhere well oxygenated to grow them on and you should be good. Well done mate, the first batch of many!

[@scottroh1969]

finally... someone like yourself Mark, to help me think of how I might stimulate my 397s. I've had them now for 2 years and only once had egg laying (lost the eggs to fungus growth) Appreciate your words of the 50% water changes.... if I might ask, regarding then cutting back, would you then say maybe one change every 2-3 weeks to see what they might do? TIA if able to help a bit more.

[@markclayden7654]

@@scottroh1969 397's are a little bit different. They're quite delicate, are a man made created species and dont actually occur naturally in the wild (Selectively bred from another species) but saying that, they should respond well to similar spawning practices. They do require VERY specific water conditions to breed, so make sure your fresh water is a very close match to their tank water. A good idea is to gradually lower the water level over a week or so before you do a water change, drop the level maybe 30%-40%, then do the water change. keep only a pair in the tank, keep your water parameters spot on and they should breed. They arent easy though!

[@scottroh1969]

@@markclayden7654 did not realize that about 397s... You can both ends of it if you by chance have a quick article I'd be happy to read as I'll no doubt be searching further on this with you having pointed it out. Thank you all the same for your note here!

[@Automobilpro]

Amazing

[@seancallahan8633]

Please tell me you’re in the states.

[@kylemartin2487]

Without exaggeration, this may be your magnum opus as a content creator. 4-5 years of desiring, followed by tragedy, triumph, patience and belief. Congratulations man, I envy you as much as I’m happy for your success!

[@mattkinsella9856]

This is fantastic! To meticulously care for fish that hide most of the time for 3 years and be so patient is not something most people are cut out for. Congratulations 😊

[@kurtisstutzman7056]

Yep, when breeding any fish, patience is key...!

[@RockulousRift]

I'm doing it now. Bought my juvenile like 1.5 years ago and my friend did the same. Each paid $350. Here's hoping one is even the opposite sex lol.

[@andresantanamarques133]

Really important to breed these fishes. They are currently considered endangered in the wild and therefore we should avoid buying wild Zebras. They only exist in Brazil, in Rio Xingu, and currently their numbers in the wild are decreasing significantly. For this reason, I really think what you are doing with these Zebras is important: introducing in the hobby non-wild zebras! Keep going!

[@bugloverspiderlover8490]

Give it time,these will infest local lakes and rivers soon enough.

[@falcolf]

@@bugloverspiderlover8490literally nobody is going to dump a $750 fish in a random river if they can't keep it anymore. In the first place anyone who spends that much money is a dedicated hobbiest who has done ample research to keep the animal in the best conditions and if they do need to rehome that fish? They'll rehome it either to get back some of their investment or they'll give it to another dedicated hobbiest who they know will take good care of it. These aren't goldfish.

[@sillybeanthing]

​@@bugloverspiderlover8490 there's a reason why they aren't thriving in rivers and stuff already. They don't breed quickly enough to outcompete how much they're being poached and stolen from the places they're native from.

[@TheCutiePatrol]

its in threat because of this very hobby, its not important to breed them, its important to educate people on where they source their fish.

[@TheCutiePatrol]

@@sillybeanthing thats incorrect, they're over fished for people who want them in tanks, they breed very well in the wild, as the adults guard the eggs. they're not pandas, ffs.

[@klausoxen6597]

Nick, u are really awesome! After 45 Years as a Pleco & Cory breeder, I really take my 🎩Hat off to you! I can still remember that in the late 1980s and early 2000s, many Corys/Plecos were still wild-caught. At that Time I was one of the first in Germany to successfully and regularly breed, for example, Panoquolus ssp., Ancistrus ranunculus, Sturisoma panamense, Dekeyseria, Scleromystax barbatus, C. trilineatus, or the real C. julii, C. undulatus, C.nanus. 🍀Wish you all the best and maximum success for the Future! Many greets from the Center of Germany.

[@borisbadenov8613]

Klaus, are you still breeding fish?

[@klausoxen6597]

@@borisbadenov8613 No, unfortunately I haven't been breeding for 3 1/2 Years due to health Problems. Sometimes, for fun, C. nanus, C. panda (small spot), Goodeids & Xiphos.

[@borisbadenov8613]

@@klausoxen6597 Hope you get better.

[@klausoxen6597]

@@borisbadenov8613 Many thanks👍

[@kalebhope5714]

@@klausoxen6597also wishing the same 🤙

[@shesellsfish]

Please keep us updated on your progress with these babies and future babies. It's incredible to see this, as it seems to be the general consensus in the hobby that they are just not viable to raise from eggs to maturity. I believe you are proving that general belief to be wrong.

[@borisbadenov8613]

The kids, once raised up, will be easier to breed. Spawns will be larger.

[@bobbymoniz7657]

First of all, CONGRATULATIONS! This was, by far, the greatest fishkeeping video ever. I have learned so much from you, and i never miss your videos. This one was actually emotional! Your passion is inspirational.

[@davisaldanhasoares949]

We need people like you here in Brazil to save these species from extinction! You are amazing!

[@AquariumCoop]

What a wholesome story. Good job.

[@KeepingFishSimple]

Thank you so much!!

[@reefreturn]

So happy for you. I once had ten Zebra plecos.... I had a company growing and had to be a lot in China. So I closed my 54 aquariums and sold the plecos for 200$ each, about 10-15 years ago 🙂

[@bardofely]

What an amazing story of patience, not giving up in the face of terrible problems, and then finally achieving what you set out to do! Congrats on this!

[@susanpitt4742]

What a wonderfully heart warming story. Thanks for taking us along on your journey with these spectacular looking fish. Your enthusiasm is absolutely contagious.

[@oakmaiden2133]

I didn’t know they were so rare, unfortunately this video revealing 750 dollar value might spark illegal collection from the wild. Personally feel some animals shouldn’t be in the “industry”.

[@senjuhashirama1946]

​@@oakmaiden2133they are already completely wiped out from nature from what I know, the last location they were im is dried up

[@ferret1231000]

I and many other people have been through this journey with you Nick. Watching your videos on getting scammed, finally obtaining these fish, and the frustrations on not having them breed. So seeing this video, seeing the smile on your face as you discover the eggs then count the babies was a heartwarming experience. Congratulations 🎉

[@AjayNairBond007]

Love your style of story telling !! And the patience, commitment to wait this long to make this video

[@GodisTruth914]

Wow!!!!! Zebra Pleco Babies!!!!!! This is freaking awesome!!!! Congratulations dad!!!!😊😊😊

[@ojmn_1]

This is one of my first time interacting with the fish breeding and collecting community and without any prior knowledge I can tell just how special this is to you. Keep it up man!

[@riccardoricci9420]

you're living a dream shared by millions of people. Massive congratulations man.

[@markfranklin8831]

Wow i have to say im so proud of you. That is a journey that most people will never be able to do. So awesome and congratulations. Can't wait for more updates on the zebs. Thanks for sharing. 🙏✌️👍💗💯🔥

[@Aquafinity]

Great video Nick, this journey of yours was absolutely crazy. Glad everything turned out fine at the end. Best of luck with the fry!

[@aqualicioushobby]

I still remember the day you added them to your fish room and now to see those tiny fry swimming around is just fantastic. Most of us breeders know how long the wait can be for plecos, specially zebras. Awesome work as always

[@_SugarBee_]

This is my first video of yours but gods, I've never heard someone so genuine and heartfelt and inspired by their fish. Having you in the hobby is a blessing and I wish you the best of luck going forwards. Never lose your spark

[@kevinmerry1307]

What a great story great to see the little ones.

[@mountainfarmersa887]

Hey Nick, I was so happy when I saw the thumbnail of the video. I can't believe that you finally got the zebra pleco's breeding. So happy for you!

[@hirunnethmal3569]

As a fellow fishkeeper,I can clearly understand your joy right now😍and hopefully expecting one day I also be able to witness this with my favorite fish species,good luck for your future journey ❤️

[@Fishburgh]

I'll see Mr.Bodrock this Friday at our club meeting. He's on the board of the grater Pittsburgh aquarium society. So happy for your success. Dude, you did it.🎉P.S. I'm going RO in the near future. Wish me luck.

[@poketilecraft1015]

I’m glad you finally got them to breed

[@shesellsfish]

What an amazing process and journey with these rare and beautiful fish. Best wishes going forward. Hopefully you'll be one of the best breeders of these wonderful fish!!

[@andrewdeeley9329]

Congratulations, it’s so obvious watching how much you are smiling in this video that it’s a passion for the fish not the money. Really happy for you.

[@TheFurlock]

I really like how it’s a story of growth not just for you but for them also. :)

[@Broodzak]

Congrats, dude! You've been talking about breeding them for so long now. Glad you finally got there! Keep up the good work, really love all your videos, they're really inspirational

[@nicholashillier1977]

Congratulations. Really happy for you. Your knowledge and dedication has been rewarded

[@australianbiotopes4563]

I loved this! what a great story, I have to admit I was wondering what was going on first with the cartoon but it turned out to be such a great video, you have to definitely watch the whole video, something to really be proud of Nick, great effort, and your honesty about the troubles it took you to get there is very refreshing and shows what people sometimes have to go through for what they love, I remember you telling me a number of time you love them so much even if they don't breed you will keep them for ever anyway, so congratulations on the outcome and I hope you have a heap more eggs and fry in future 🙂

[@berenicehickey9755]

Wow! Very well done!

[@flower_bone8122]

I'm SO happy for you man, you've been waiting for this for so long! Congrats 🎉

[@JJLewin1]

Well done for hanging in there. So sad that the scammers break so many dreams. The babies look wonderful, so congratulations all round.

[@garykeith4295]

WOW ! Way to go ! Congratulations !!! They’re on my top Bucket list as well . I have had 7 for about 9 months now . I know it’s a long journey . Thank you so much for sharing ! Please keeps us updated .

[@joegonzales8067]

Awesome! I hope you have even more success in the future breeding of your zebras. :)

[@strider5119]

My advice, if you want it lol. Keep your first batch or 2 and grow them out in a separate tank. Start selling everything after that, then use those first couple batches as a breeding colony when they're ready. That way you don't have everything relying on the initial batch. Some plecos are finicky and will randomly stop breeding, then your potential income stream halts.

[@smeeegss7697]

so happy for you!!!! this is amazing and remember the time you got them and opened the box right away in the car lol amazing journey!!!

[@andystokes8702]

I'm so pleased for you, Nick. This was awesome, you waited so long and now it's all come together. Now you know what triggered them to spawn you can repeat this as often as you like, you could end up being THE MAN to see for Zebra Plecos. Congratulations.

[@CasuallyOptimistic]

Congrats! One word of recommendation re the preserved BBS is to freeze it into ice cube trays as they start to go off quite rapidly as they build up on the sides of the pot. It can be kept in the fridge for longer but freezing is the best way to preserve it for future use!

[@Dysphoric4life]

I've been watching for a while now and I'm so happy they finally bred for you! That's awesome!

[@LifeinJars]

Wow what a story, and those babies look awesome!

[@TickityBoo70]

Your passion for looking after and breeding these wonderful fish is very captivating 😊 Thank you for sharing your adventures and knowledge - it is greatly appreciated ❤

[@classylittleman]

Incredible news, congratulations! I got emotional even just watching...it must be amazing to see such patience pay off.

[@kazdaspaz6544]

Congrats Nick. Glad to see the investment is paying off in the long haul

[@zac2780]

I know nothing about fish but it was super interesting listening to someone as passionate as you are about them

[@alantooth48]

Wow that is so awesome You must be So proud! That is quite an accomplishment 13 total zebra pleco babies. That's a great job your long wait paid off. It pays off to be patient. Good luck with those babies they are beautiful!

[@marct138]

Congrats! I’ve been watching you content for years. So sad to see their natural habitat destroyed. But people like you keeping them alive.

[@MrLongNoseMan]

It is honestly so precious to see your fish dreams come true

[@tvideo1189]

Congratulations! I know how you feel. I was the same way with my first Discus spawns! I never really went in for fish that are so reclusive they are hardly ever seen, so I admire your effort even more.

[@markmackey1086]

Fantastic video Nick . We can see in this video how proud you are .Well done .

[@vmaxpdg]

Congratulations for all your patience and dedication. This is your reward. And what a reward!

[@cannawiseangels1860]

Amazing story with a great ending!!! Years in the making!!! Happy for ya!!!!

[@NotAsTraceable]

Congratulations on getting a spawn with the zebras. I miss having a basement full of fish tanks. I had 25 tanks of discus. I can attest to the work and dedication of frequent large water changes. I got my first tank when I was probably 10 with the typical 1960's fish store selection. I can remember the first time and looked my tank and there were baby swordtails everywhere among my floating plants. There's no feeling like looking into a tank and seeing a new clutch of eggs or fry.

[@FishEZ]

Wow! GREAT news Nick, I'm so happy that you were able to get a spawn from them. I look forward to hearing more about them as time goes on.

[@xapriliztheshizzlex]

You are so freaking funny. I sent this to my husband, hes not into fish keeping but he will appreciate the humor! Im so sorry you got scammed!

[@Bisonn1572]

Text messages and animation is gold 😂 so funny and really cool! Good work

[@jaebingham1578]

Congratulations on a job well done! Your patience and tenacity reminds us all that we are operating on Mother Nature's timeline, not our own.

[@ziggy5369]

My mom introduced me to the hobby back on the early 90s, she's been in it since the 70s and her tip to get difficult fish to spawn is do 50% waterchanges every time it rains. She had some science behind involing air pressure idk... but I never questioned it as it's worked for me my whole life.

[@Simply4Aquatics]

Proper made up for you bud! It’s so cool seeing them grow it never gets old!👍👍

[@draculasdaughter36]

It's so refreshing to hear someone pronounce zebra correctly for a change. 😁🦓 🐠

[@tthappyrock368]

Congratulations on first time zebra pledge dad! They're gorgeous!

[@tomdoyle6030]

Amazing news bro , so happy they have finally gave you some babies and hoping now they have got to ages there will be many more to come for you

[@sithlord1swfan132]

Congrats man.a great achievement,a really good thing.And as much as the money doesn't matter it sure does help to fund our passion projects.Congratulations again.

[@TaijaT76]

They are so cute and adorable..😊

[@TheMoopyShow]

Congratulations, my guy! So sad to hear you lost one, but at least the others survived!

[@harrycruz7912]

Been subbed for a week now and your content is amazing. A grown 31 year old man jumping around in excitement for ya. Good shiz!

[@FladdyDapjacks]

Congratulations man! This has been a long time coming for sure! So cool to wake up to this, good luck going forward!

[@marvinscotton8658]

Those babies are so cute ❤. You deserve success after all you had to endure. Good luck with them.

[@Tubercollosal]

Nick, love this story. Well done on the zebs.

[@cooperrostirolla3100]

CONGRATULATIONS NIC!! , fellow Aussie here I’m still waiting for mine to breed! This gives me hope!

[@robatthey-howard4073]

Wow! This is amazing to watch, I’m so pleased for you! I’m in a similar boat with my Zebra’s. I’ve had 10 for just over a year, they were 9 months old when they arrived. I’ve spotted one or two attempted trappings. Keep us updated please!

[@grantgonzalez477]

Dude l.. the stabbing feeling of getting scammed/stolen from. Very inspirational how you took it on the chin and kept going forward. Cheers man

[@donivanstryker1340]

Congrats, Good to see a happy ending to a long journey that didn't start out well for you. I wish you many more spawns from them.

[@oimeunomeevitorr]

By far, today, the best aquarium content in internet, at least in English, congratz

[@garageaquatics2023]

Congratulations, Nick! Cigars all around! Those little ones are absolutely adorable. 🙂 I really enjoyed your intro animation sequence. Great technique. I really hope karma found its way to the thief. Keep 'em coming. ~Ron

[@SanderBauwens]

Damn man! Congratulations 🎉!!! The feeling you must have to finally reach this stage! They look amazing! What are you gonna do with them? You gonna keep some?

[@cyberwolf6667]

I haven’t seen Zebra Pleco for years , I’m jealous

[@buendiasolutions]

I'm so happy for you! I have been watching your channel and I know how much you wanted those Zebs!

[@AaravSherlin-l8x]

Bro I can see the sparkle in your eyes, so happy for you and that your childhood dream has come true 😊

[@JimBoulter108]

Congrats man! Thanks for letting us live out this dream through you! 🎉

[@marcelwhity5105]

It's so fun to watch your videos. How to care for each fish with passion. You are a role model for every breeder. Please keep it up. I wish you all the best with your business. Unfortunately I live in Germany and can't visit you, but when I'm in Australia I have to visit your shop.

[@Hummingbirder1]

This is just so... fantastic! And, despite the fabulous second half of the story, I especially *loved* the "cartoon" beginning😆🥰

[@GenXHeart]

Those are some really pretty fish and such an epic journey! Congratulations!

[@lakeshiamills1454]

This is very exciting! I've been saving up to buy a group of juvenile zebra plecos or a breeding pair! Seeing you have success with them after following your journey to acquire them is phenomenal! Congratulations on your success and thank you so much for sharing what has worked for you! I'm going to try doing daily 50% water changes in my other breeding tanks and see if those fish respond the same!

[@leetowner7814]

Congratulations I feel your story I’m one of many aquarist still waiting for this magical moment to happen fair play to you I commend your patience. 🎉

[@kornicopula]

I have a lot of zebra pleco and have been breeding for about 12 years or so. Know that small zebs are known to chock on some worms ( dont feed black worms) because of the fairly hard shell... I usually let dad take care of them (if the dad is a good care taker). As soon as the eggs have hatched, they are easy to remove like you did in the vid. Dont wait to long as the babies start to suck to the walls of the cave and are very hard to remove from the cave. Almond leaves are a nice addition. Make sure to have some common red shrimp as they will eat left over food. Keep on doing what you do and rock on!

[@kornicopula]

Ow, also make sure you have some vinegar eels ( the tiny worms you produce in a bottle) and the worms you produce on oatmeal for the first two weeks or so.

[@k0olmini11]

VERY cool. So much to learn about caring for these amazing creatures

[@KristiB73]

Love the cartoon!!! So glad you got the fish and got them to breed.

[@daretoreef]

the journey has been long! Safe to say you did it! congrats on the babies! such a great dad!

[@foxiepoxi9245]

I subscribed for the updates on these little beauties! It warms my heart to see how much you love them.

[@madaboutmilitaria3630]

So cool, did the cops bust the scum bag? Great cartoon😂😂😂

[@deadoffdabs342]

Been waiting so long for zebra video updates, got a small colony of 3 in with my l134’s

[@kjirstenboucher9682]

Love hearing your story. Congratulations! Has to be such a rewarding experience.😊

[@fcb869]

Yes I always keep shrimp with my pleco babies they are a mini clean up crew it’s great

[@josekacv0420]

Thats awesome nick!! After years of hopeing, im sure you dont regret selling your colony!!

[@scarlettHischild]

Yayyyy!!! Congratulations on your successful rearing of your zebra babies.🥳🥳 I’m so sorry you were scammed to start , but so thankful it turned out happy in the end. Thanks for posting all of your journey, this is such a beautiful fish. 😊 I hope to see many more vids on them to come.

[@TwinkleStar987]

I’m after Cory’s and want to purchase them from you. I can’t wait. Congratulations on the Zebra’s I’m so excited for you. 🎉🎉🎉

[@Doktracy]

Wow! Congratulations baby panda daddy!🎉❤