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Freshwater fishL-18 Gold Nugget Pleco
L-18 Gold Nugget Pleco
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The gold nugget pleco comes in three basic color variations, but these are generally referred to as small-spot and large-spot patterns. Gold nugget plecos must be caught among rocks at the base of small waterfalls in streams of the Brazilian Amazon basin. These fish are highly prized among pleco enthusiasts.
Most plecos, including gold nuggets, do better with a little driftwood in the tank.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Baryancistrus xanthellus (L-018) |
| Origin | Rio Xingu, Brazil |
| Care Level | Moderate (needs warm, oxygen-rich water) |
| Temperament | Peaceful (territorial with other plecos) |
| Adult Size | Up to 8–10" |
| Lifespan | 12–15+ years |
| Diet | Omnivore (algae and sinking foods) |
| Water Temperature | 78–84°F |
| pH | 6.0–7.5 |
| Group Size | Single, or several with a cave each |
| Shipping Size | Approx. 1–3" |
Care Guide
Tank setup: Give them strong current, high oxygen, smooth rocks, caves and driftwood. Many come from warm, fast rivers in Brazil, so keep the water clean and warm.
Feeding: Feed algae wafers and quality sinking pellets. They also enjoy frozen foods now and then.
Tankmates: They do well with most community fish and peaceful cichlids. Give each pleco its own cave to limit territorial squabbles.
Good to know: Many of these plecos come from fast-flowing rivers threatened by dam projects, so wild-caught specimens are increasingly rare.
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