Large L018 Gold Nugget Pleco (4”)

Scientific Name

Baryancistrus xanthellus 

Maximum Size and Lifespan

• Size: Up to 6-8 inches in captivity, though some may stay a bit smaller.

• Lifespan: Typically 10–15 years with proper care.

Recommended Aquarium Size, Water Changes & Care

• Tank Size: Minimum 40 gallons for a single specimen/small group

• Water Parameters:

  • Temperature: 77–86°F 

  • pH: 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)

  • Water Changes: Regular 25–35% weekly water changes, as they are sensitive to poor water quality and require high oxygen levels.

• Tank Setup: Provide driftwood, rocks, caves, and shaded areas. They prefer strong water flow and well-oxygenated conditions, mimicking river rapids.

Tankmates

• Compatible with: Peaceful community fish of similar size such as tetras, rasboras, barbs, peaceful cichlids, and other plecos if space and hiding spots are sufficient. Angelfish, Discus, and Geophagus Cichlids are great larger tankmates.

• Avoid: Aggressive bottom dwellers, large predatory fish, or too many other territorial plecos.

Diet

• Primary Diet: Omnivore with herbivorous leanings.

• Foods:

  • Algae wafers and spirulina-based sinking pellets

  • Fresh vegetables (zucchini, cucumber, spinach, peas)

  • Occasional protein: bloodworms, brine shrimp, shrimp pellets

• They graze on algae and biofilm but cannot survive on algae alone—supplement feeding is essential. Driftwood is also very important to provide bacteria to help them break down food

Natural Environment

In the wild, the Gold Nugget Pleco inhabits fast-flowing rocky stretches of the Rio Xingu, where it clings to rocks and wood, grazing on algae and detritus. Its specialized sucker mouth allows it to withstand strong currents. These environments are nutrient-rich, highly oxygenated, and warm year-round.

Breeding

• Breeding in home aquariums is very difficult and rarely successful.

• Known to breed in caves in strong flowing water. The male guards eggs until they hatch.

• Most specimens in the aquarium trade are wild-caught.

Overview

The Gold Nugget Pleco (Baryancistrus xanthellus) is a striking armored catfish from the Rio Xingu, Brazil. Its dark body dotted with golden-yellow spots and matching yellow fin edging makes it one of the most sought-after plecos. While hardy once established, it is sensitive to water quality and requires pristine, oxygen-rich, fast-flowing environments to thrive. With a peaceful temperament, a properly maintained diet, and a large aquarium, it can be a long-lived and rewarding showpiece fish.