Gold Nugget Pleco (L-18)
(Baryancistrus sp.)
Minimum Tank Size: 50 gallons
Care Level: Moderate
Tank Conditions: 73-79°F; pH 6.5-7.0; dH 8-10
Temperament: Peaceful
Max. Size In Aquarium: Up to 6"
Diet: Omnivore, Herbivore
Origin: South America
Family: Loricariidae
The name "Gold Nugget Pleco" is short for "Gold Nugget Plecostomus." It is a suckermouth catfish which was first captured and exported to Great Britain in 1981. Due to the abundance of stock available in the catfish category, it has become very difficult to categorize them by species. As a result, you may see a reference to the letter "L" for the family Loricariidae, followed by a number. The Gold Nugget Pleco is referred to as L018 or L-18 by most hobbyists.
The Gold Nugget Pleco is a shy bottom-dweller that appreciates plenty of driftwood in its environment.
Unfortunately, the Gold Nugget's breeding habits have not been documented.
Feeding the Gold Nugget Pleco is not difficult due to the fact that it is not picky. Feeding off the bottom of the tank, it gets most of its nutrition from left over food and algae. If there is no algae or left over food present, supplementing with high quality flake food, sinking carnivore pellets, and freeze-dried bloodworms and tubifex..
Ideal tank mates include: Angelfish, Discus and other Cichlids, Tetras, Barbs, Danios, Rasboras, Gouramis, Rainbowfish, Livebearers, Loaches, other Plecos and scavenger Catfish.
