Gold Nugget Pleco
Published August 6, 2019
Author: Mike - FishLore Admin
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The Gold Nugget Pleco (Baryancistrus sp.) has a few different varieties available.
These plecos still often go by "L" numbers even though they were scientifically classified in 2011. The L stands for Loricariidae and the number is the fish. There are three different Gold Nugget Plecos - L018 (and L085), L081 and L177. The one pictured is Baryancistrus xanthellus.
They are considered omnivores but mainly eat algae on rocks and driftwood. There are sinking algae wafers and pleco type foods available online or at your local fish store that you can feed them. They may also go after fresh veggies like zuchini and cucumbers.
If you want to buy one of these Gold Nugget Plecos expect to pay quite a bit. You can find them online going for anywhere from $30 to $70 or more.
Gold Nugget Pleco Care
Scientific Name : Baryancistrus xanthellus
Common Names : Gold Nugget Pleco
Size : 6 to 9 inches (22 cm)
Water Parameters : pH 6.6 - 7.5 | Temperature : 71°F - 79°F (22°C - 26°C) | Water Hardness : 5° to 15° dH
Lifespan : 5 years plus
Origin / Habitat : South America, Amazon River tributaries in Brazil and Venezuela
Temperament / Behavior : They can be territorial with other plecos
Breeding : No info on breeding.
Aquarium Size : 55 gallons (210 liters) or larger given their adult size.
Tank Mates : Will do ok with most other species except for other plecos.
Fish Disease : Freshwater Fish Disease
Diet / Foods : These plecos are considered omnivores and will appreciate a variety of foods like sinking algae wafers, sinking shrimp pellets, alage growing on rocks, etc.
Tank Region : Bottom
Gender : Very difficult using external features
Photo Credit : Photos copyright JJPhoto.dk
Site References :
Fishbase
Wikipedia
References : Fishbase - Loricariidae (Armored catfishes) - Ancistrinae - Baryancistrus sp.
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More Catfish Profiles
Royal Pleco
Gets up to around 17 inches so you need a large aquarium if you want to keep this pleco.
Schwartz's Cory
Another little corydoras species that seems to do better when kept in small groups of 3 or more.
