Gold Nugget Pleco (Diet, Care, and Intetesting Facts)

Gold Nugget Pleco

Gold Nugget Plecos are a type of freshwater catfish found in the Amazon and Orinoco river basins in Brazil and Venezuela.

They prefer clear, flowing water. These fish mostly eat plants and decaying matter but may eat other foods in a home aquarium.

It’s hard to differentiate between male and female gold nugget plecos as they haven’t been bred much in captivity.

Gold nugget plecos are mostly active at night but can get used to being out during the day if they feel safe in their aquarium.

It’s a good idea to provide hiding spots for them since they are naturally nocturnal creatures.

Gold Nugget Pleco Interesting Facts

  • Gold nugget plecos are a type of freshwater catfish that live in rivers in Brazil and Venezuela, particularly in the Amazon and Orinoco basins.
  • They can grow up to 34 cm (13 inches) long and are mainly herbivores/detritivores but may eat other foods in an aquarium setting.
  • One way to identify them from related genera is by the presence of a membrane connecting their dorsal fin and adipose fin.
  • Although they are primarily nocturnal, these fish will come out during the day if given sufficient time to get used to their aquarium environment. Providing hiding places for them in the aquarium is recommended.

Gold Nugget Pleco Habitat

Gold nugget plecos inhabit the Amazon and Orinoco river basins in Brazil and Venezuela.

They prefer water temperatures between 77°F to 86°F (25°C to 30°C).

Water Temperature:77°F to 86°F (25°C to 30°C)
Water pH:Unknown
Water Hardness:Unknown

Gold Nugget Pleco Physical Characteristics

Size: 13 inches (34 centimeters)

Gold nugget plecos can reach up to a maximum length of 13 inches (34 centimeters).

These fish are unique because they have a special membrane connecting two of their fins, unlike most other similar fish.

Gold Nugget Pleco Scientific Classification

Kingdom:Animalia
Phylum:Chordata
Class:Actinopterygii
Order:Siluriformes
Family:Loricariidae
Genus:Baryancistrus
Scientific Name:Baryancistrus xanthellus
Also Known As:Gold Nugget Pleco
Conservation Status:Unknown

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