Golden Nugget Pleco (L018)

Geographic Origin and Biotope: Endemic to the Rio Xingu basin (Brazil). The nominal species B. xanthellus includes the morphs L018, L085 and L177. Lives in the "rapids" (Cachoeiras) firmly wedged between dark granite rocks, in clear, very hot waters swept by extreme currents.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Gold Nugget Pleco (L018 / L085 / L177). The "Gold Nugget" par excellence. Distinguished from L081 by clearly larger (L018/L085) or enormous (L177) golden polka dots. Possesses a formidable oval sucker and the dorsal fin connected to the adipose.

Social Behavior: Extremely territorial regarding bottom space. If it does not have an adequate den, it will headbutt and tail-whip other Loricariids until seriously injuring them. Ignores fish swimming freely in mid-water.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Hypnotic livery: matte black background with large golden spots ("Nuggets") and thick yellow-orange borders on the dorsal and caudal fins. In adults (L085) the spots tend to shrink slightly. Males with flatter heads and more evident cheek spines.

Aquarium Setup: Specialized "River-tank" (min. 120 cm / 48 inches). Rocky setup: stack rounded rocks to create dark tunnels where the strong water current is channeled. Bottom in sand or smooth gravel. Avoid too soft woods that muddy the water.

Diet and Feeding: Benthic scraper ("Aufwuchs"). Vitally needs an almost totally vegetable diet (zucchini, cucumbers, potatoes, peas, spirulina) to survive long-term in the aquarium. Excessive doses of animal proteins cause lethal occlusions.

Water Quality: Highly demanding. The water MUST be very warm (27-32°C / 81-90°F). At lower temperatures it stops digesting and slowly dies. The high temperature dictates powerful aerators or surface movement pumps to saturate oxygen.

Compatibility and Tankmates: Excellent with rheophilic or heat-loving "discus-compatible" species (Geophagus, Uaru, Cardinals). Avoid competing or shy bottom fish (Corydoras) which would be brutalized in the search for food and dens.

Aquarium Reproduction: Extremely rare, prerogative of experts. Males trap females in narrow tubes for days. The brood of large yellow eggs is defended by the male against everything and everyone.

Risks and Diseases: Thermal shock and initial malnutrition. Imported specimens often have hollowed bellies; if the eye is sunken ("sunken eyes"), the fish is in the terminal phase. Do not treat with copper and acclimate it very slowly.