Baryancistrus chrysolomus (L047-Magnum Pleco) 3″-4″

The Baryancistrus chrysolomus (L047), also known as the Mango Pleco, is a striking species of pleco native to the Rio Xingu in Brazil. This fish is renowned for its unique yellow and green pattern, resembling a mango, making it a popular choice for aquarists. While they are hardy and resilient, Mango Plecos require specific care to thrive in captivity. Here’s a complete care guide to ensure their well-being.

Tank Requirements

• Tank Size:
  • Minimum: A 75-gallon tank is recommended for a single Mango Pleco, as they can grow up to 7-8 inches (18-20 cm) long.
  • If you plan to keep more than one pleco or other bottom-dwellers, a 100-gallon or larger tank is necessary to avoid territorial disputes and to provide enough space for foraging.
• Water Parameters:
  • pH: 6.5 – 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral).
  • Hardness: 4-12 dGH (soft to medium).
  • Temperature: 75°F – 82°F (24°C – 28°C). Mango Plecos are tropical fish and require warm water to thrive.
  • Water Flow: Moderate to strong. Since Mango Plecos are found in fast-moving rivers in their natural habitat, strong filtration and water flow are important to replicate these conditions and maintain oxygenated water.
• Substrate:
  • A soft, sandy substrate is ideal for Mango Plecos. This mimics their natural environment and prevents damage to their sensitive barbels. Avoid sharp or rough gravel that could injure them.
  • Plecos spend much of their time scavenging along the substrate, so providing a smooth surface is important.
• Decor:
  • Hiding spots: Mango Plecos are nocturnal and will spend most of the day hiding in caves, behind rocks, or under driftwood. Provide plenty of caves and driftwood to help them feel secure.
  • Driftwood also plays a role in their digestion and provides them with an opportunity to rasp for biofilm.

Diet and Feeding

• Omnivorous Diet:
  Mango Plecos are omnivores, meaning they eat both plant matter and small animals in the wild. A balanced diet is crucial to their health and vibrant color.

Primary Foods:

• Sinking pellets or wafers specifically designed for plecos or herbivores.
• Algae wafers to satisfy their need for plant material.
• Fresh vegetables like zucchini, cucumber, spinach, or blanched peas.
• Protein sources: Frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia. Mango Plecos also enjoy occasional protein from small pieces of fish, shrimp, or earthworms.

• Feeding Frequency:
  • Feed them once or twice a day, offering only as much food as they can consume in a few hours to avoid overfeeding and water quality issues.
• Feeding Tips:
  • Since Mango Plecos are bottom feeders, make sure sinking foods are provided near the substrate.
  • Remove any uneaten food after a few hours to prevent it from decaying and affecting water quality.

Tankmates

• Compatible Tankmates:
  Mango Plecos are peaceful but can be territorial with other bottom dwellers. Good tankmates include:
  • Larger, peaceful cichlids like Discus or Angelfish.
  • Tetras, loaches, and barbs that stay away from the bottom.
  • Larger catfishand other plecos, provided there is enough space for everyone.
  • Rainbowfish, larger community fish, or peaceful schooling fish work well.
• Incompatible Tankmates:
  • Aggressive species such as Oscars, Cichlasoma, and Jack Dempseys should be avoided as they may harass or stress out the Mango Pleco.
  • Small fish that might be outcompeted for food or become prey.
  • Small or aggressive bottom-dwellers that could compete for space or food.

Behavior and Habitat Preferences

• Activity Level:
  Mango Plecos are primarily nocturnal. They are most active during the night, foraging for food and exploring the substrate. During the day, they prefer to hide in caves or behind decorations.
• Social Behavior:
  • While generally peaceful, Mango Plecos can be territorial with other bottom-dwelling species. If keeping multiple plecos, ensure there are plenty of hiding spots and territories to avoid stress or aggression.
  • They can be kept individually, in pairs, or in small groups, as long as there is sufficient space.
• Water Quality:
  • Mango Plecos produce a fair amount of waste, so regular water changes are essential. Change 20-30% of the water weekly to maintain clean water and avoid harmful toxins.
  • Strong filtration is essential to keep the water oxygenated and remove excess organic matter.

Breeding

• Breeding in Captivity:
  Breeding Baryancistrus chrysolomus (L047) in captivity is rare, but it can happen with the right conditions. Mango Plecos are cave spawners. The male will guard a suitable cave and attract a female to lay eggs. After spawning, the male continues to guard the eggs until they hatch.

Water conditions: Slightly cooler temperatures (75°F – 78°F), excellent water quality, and a well-rounded diet will help stimulate breeding.

• Eggshatch in about a week, and the fry are small and require a specialized diet of finely crushed sinking pellets or live foods like newly hatched brine shrimp.

Summary

The Baryancistrus chrysolomus (L047), or Mango Pleco, is a stunning addition to any aquarium, known for its bold yellow and black pattern. It thrives in warm, slightly acidic water with plenty of hiding spots, a varied diet, and good water quality. Regular water changes and strong filtration are necessary to keep this pleco healthy, as they can be sensitive to poor water conditions. By providing the right environment, this pleco can live a long and healthy life, becoming a standout feature in your aquarium.