💎 Gold Nugget Pleco (Baryancistrus xanthellus, L018)
💎 Gold Nugget Pleco (Baryancistrus xanthellus, L018)
Golden Spots • Collector’s Fish • Rare Pleco
📋 The Gold Nugget Pleco (Baryancistrus xanthellus) is one of the most striking and collectible plecos, famous for its jet-black body covered in bright yellow spots and a golden fringe along its dorsal and caudal fins.
Several forms exist (L018, L081, L177), differing slightly in the size and density of their spots, but all are equally prized by aquarists. Growing to 8–10 inches, the Gold Nugget Pleco requires large, well-oxygenated aquariums with strong flow and lots of hiding spaces.
Although peaceful toward tank mates, they may become territorial with other plecos, especially in confined spaces.
💡 Highlights
💎 Golden Spots – Bright yellow on black body
⚫ Golden Fringe – Fins outlined in gold
🌊 River Species – Needs oxygen & strong flow
🐟 Peaceful Showpiece – Territorial with plecos
✅ Collector’s Favorite – Several L-number forms
🧾 A Quick Look at the Gold Nugget Pleco (L018)
📛 Common Name: Gold Nugget Pleco, Golden Nugget Pleco
🔬 Scientific Name: Baryancistrus xanthellus (L018 / L081 / L177)
👨👩👧 Family: Loricariidae
🌍 Origin: Brazil – Rio Xingu
📏 Max Size: 20 – 25 cm (8 – 10 inches)
💧 pH Range: 6.5 – 7.5
🌡️ Temperature Range: 25 – 30°C (77 – 86°F)
🧠 Care Level: Advanced
💖 Temperament: Peaceful but territorial with plecos
🪸 Reef Safe: ❌ Freshwater species only
🏠 Min Tank Size: 250 L (65+ US gallons)
📌 Tank Level: Bottom dweller
🧬 Captive Bred: ❌ No
🌿 Wild Caught: ✅ Yes
⏳ Lifespan: 8 – 12 years
🍽️ Diet: Omnivore – algae, protein foods, veggies
🐣 Reproduction: Rare in aquariums
