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Gold nugget pleco - Baryancistrus sp. L177

Gold nugget pleco - Baryancistrus sp. L177

Scientific name: Baryancistrus sp. L177

Common name: Gold nugget pleco

Family: Loricariidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 20 - 30 cm (7.87 - 11.81 inch)

014

Recommended pH range for the species: 6.5 - 7.5

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 2 - 14°N (35.71 - 250ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 26 - 30 °C (78.8 - 86°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: South America

Temperament to its own species: aggressive/territorial

Temperament toward other fish species: peaceful

Usual place in the tank: Bottom levels

Origin

Gold Nugget Plecos (Baryancistrus sp. L177) are native to South America, specifically found in the Xingu River in Brazil. This river is characterized by fast-flowing waters, rocky substrates, and high oxygen levels. These environmental conditions play a key role in the health and behavior of Gold Nugget Plecos in captivity.

Lifespan

With proper care, Baryancistrus sp. L177 can live for an impressive 20-25 years. Due to their long lifespan, they require a long-term commitment from aquarists who can provide stable water conditions and proper nutrition.

Tank Setup and Behavior

Gold Nugget Plecos are bottom-dwelling fish that prefer spacious aquariums with strong water flow and excellent filtration. They are territorial toward their own species and other bottom-dwellers, making them best suited for single-specimen setups unless the tank is exceptionally large.

Tank Size Requirements

Due to their adult size of 20-30 cm (7.87-11.81 inches), they require a minimum tank size of 120 cm (4 feet) in length. The larger the tank, the better, as this allows them space to establish their territory without stress.

Substrate and Decorations

  • Use fine sand or smooth gravel to mimic their natural riverbed environment.
  • Arrange driftwood, rock caves, and PVC tubes to provide hiding spots.
  • Keep lighting dim by adding floating plants to diffuse direct light.

Water Conditions

  • Temperature: 26 - 30 °C (78.8 - 86°F)
  • pH Level: 6.5 - 7.5
  • Water Hardness: 2 - 14°dGH
  • Filtration: High-flow filtration system with frequent water changes
  • Oxygenation: Moderate to strong, using air stones or powerheads

Food and Feeding

Gold Nugget Plecos are omnivorous with a strong preference for algae and plant-based foods. However, they also require protein-rich foods for balanced nutrition.

Diet Recommendations

  • Staple Diet: High-quality sinking pellets, algae wafers, and spirulina-based foods.
  • Vegetable Supplements: Blanched zucchini, cucumber, spinach, and sweet potatoes.
  • Protein Treats: Bloodworms, chopped shrimp, and brine shrimp (offered occasionally).
  • Feeding Frequency: Feed small portions 2-3 times per day, ensuring food reaches the bottom.

Sexing

Determining the gender of Gold Nugget Plecos can be challenging. However, mature males tend to have broader, flatter foreheads, while females display a more rounded head shape.

Breeding

Successfully breeding Gold Nugget Plecos in aquariums is rare and requires specialized conditions. They are known to be cave spawners, preferring enclosed, dark spaces for breeding.

Breeding Setup

  • Spawning Triggers: Slight temperature reduction and increased water oxygenation.
  • Ideal Breeding Tank: Caves, PVC tubes, and secluded rock formations.
  • Parental Behavior: Males guard the eggs until hatching, providing protection.
  • Fry Care: Newly hatched fry should be fed baby brine shrimp and crushed algae wafers.

Tankmates

Gold Nugget Plecos are generally peaceful but territorial toward other bottom-dwelling fish. Choose tankmates carefully to avoid aggression.

Compatible Tankmates

Tankmates to Avoid

  • Other Plecos: Highly territorial
  • Aggressive Cichlids: Oscars, Green Terrors
  • Fin-nipping Species: Barbs, aggressive tetras

Recommended Plants

Short Description

The Gold Nugget Pleco (Baryancistrus sp. L177) is a striking freshwater fish known for its golden-spotted body. With a lifespan of over 20 years, they require dedicated care, a spacious tank, and careful tankmate selection to thrive.

Picture

Gold Nugget Pleco

Thanks to DiabloTwo!

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