Baryancistrus xanthellus (L177) 3″

Baryancistrus xanthellus (L177), commonly known as the Gold Nugget Pleco, is a beautiful freshwater species from the Loricariidae family. It is native to the Rio Xingu in Brazil, an Amazon tributary with fast-flowing, warm waters. The L177 variety is one of several variants of the Gold Nugget Pleco, differentiated by the size and placement of its yellow spots. This species is highly sought after in the aquarium trade due to its vibrant appearance and relatively manageable size compared to other plecos.

• Size: In captivity, they typically grow to about 22 cm (9 inches), although in the wild, they may grow slightly larger.
• Coloration: The most distinctive feature of Baryancistrus xanthellus is its dark black to brown body covered with bright, round yellow or golden spots. The tips of their dorsal and caudal fins are often highlighted with yellow bands.
• Pattern: The L177 variant is known for having larger, more widely spaced yellow spots compared to other Gold Nugget Pleco types, such as L018 or L081.

• Temperament: Generally peaceful and compatible with many other species, although they may become territorial with other plecos, especially in smaller tanks.
• Activity: Like many plecos, they are primarily nocturnal but can become more active during the day in well-established, dimly lit tanks.

• Tank Size: A minimum tank size of 50 gallons is recommended for an adult. Juveniles can be housed in smaller tanks, but they need more space as they grow.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 26-30°C (79-86°F)
  • pH: 6.5-7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
  • Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water
• Filtration and Water Flow: Baryancistrus xanthellus comes from fast-flowing waters, so it’s important to provide strong water movement and excellent filtration. A powerhead or strong filtration system can mimic the river currents they are accustomed to.
• Substrate: A smooth, sandy substrate is preferred to avoid injury to their underside.
• Décor: Plenty of hiding spaces using rocks, caves, and driftwood are essential. They also appreciate dense planting and shaded areas in the tank.

While primarily herbivorous, Baryancistrus xanthellus requires a varied diet that includes both plant matter and proteins.

• Algae: They will graze on algae present in the tank, but additional food is necessary.
• Vegetables: Blanched vegetables like zucchini, cucumber, and spinach are important staples.
• Pellets/Wafers: High-quality sinking pleco pellets and algae wafers.
• Protein: Occasional treats of bloodworms, brine shrimp, or sinking shrimp pellets can be offered, but should not dominate the diet, as too much protein can be harmful.
• Driftwood: Although not xylophagous like the Panaque species, plecos like some fiber from driftwood in their environment.

Breeding Baryancistrus xanthellus in captivity is challenging and rarely achieved. In the wild, they likely breed in fast-moving rivers with high oxygen levels, making it difficult to replicate their natural conditions in most aquariums. Males are known to guard eggs laid in caves or crevices, but inducing them to spawn requires precise water parameters and environmental triggers, such as changes in water flow and temperature.

• Water Quality: Maintaining high water quality is critical for this species. They are sensitive to nitrate buildup and require frequent water changes.
• Territoriality: Although generally peaceful, they can be territorial toward other bottom-dwellers or plecos. Providing multiple hiding places can reduce aggression.
• Growth Rate: Gold Nugget Plecos grow slowly, so a tank with juvenile fish may not need to be large immediately, but long-term housing must accommodate their eventual size.

This species is a favorite among aquarists due to its striking appearance and manageable care requirements, though it’s best suited for hobbyists with experience in maintaining stable water conditions and large tanks.