Gold Nugget Pleco

Baryancistrus xanthellus

A black pleco dotted with gold and edged in yellow — sold under several L-numbers (L018/L081/L177).

Water

Freshwater

Temperature

79–86°F

pH

6–7.5

Hardness

2–12 dGH

Max size

9 in

Min tank

75 gal

Temperament

Peaceful

Social

Solitary

Swim level

Bottom

Diet

Omnivore

Care level

Advanced

Lifespan

10-15 years

Breeding

Cave-spawner

Suitability

Advanced

Origin

Rio Xingu, Brazil

Gold nuggets are gorgeous but need warm, highly oxygenated water and grow larger than many expect. The different L-numbers correspond to different spot sizes of the same described species.