Common Name: Opal Pleco
Scientific Name: Baryancistrus xanthellus
Other Names: L082, Golden Cloud Pleco, Amethyst Pleco
The Opal Pleco is a visually striking freshwater fish known for its beautiful dark body covered with shimmering golden to opal-colored spots, giving it an opalescent appearance. This attractive coloration and the unique patterns make it highly desirable among aquarists. The body is robust and elongated, covered in hard bony plates characteristic of the Baryancistrus genus.
Habitat and Distribution:
The Opal Pleco is native to the Rio Xingu in Brazil. These rivers are known for their fast-flowing, oxygen-rich waters with rocky substrates. The natural habitat provides plenty of hiding spots among rocks and submerged wood, which is essential for the well-being of these plecos.
Size and Lifespan:
In both the wild and captivity, Opal Plecos can grow up to 6-9 inches (15-23 cm) in length. With proper care, their lifespan can range from 10 to 15 years, depending on the quality of their diet and water conditions.
Diet and Behavior:
Opal Plecos are primarily herbivorous, feeding on algae, biofilm, and plant matter in their natural habitat. In an aquarium, their diet should include high-quality sinking algae wafers, spirulina tablets, and fresh vegetables such as zucchini, cucumber, and spinach. They may also consume some protein-rich foods like bloodworms and brine shrimp occasionally. These plecos are primarily nocturnal and are most active during the night. They are generally peaceful and can be kept with other non-aggressive fish, making them suitable for community tanks.
Breeding and Reproduction:
Breeding Opal Plecos in captivity is challenging and rarely achieved. They are cave spawners, with the female laying eggs in a secluded spot such as a small cave or hollow piece of driftwood. The male guards the eggs until they hatch. To encourage breeding, provide plenty of hiding spots and caves, and maintain optimal water conditions with regular water changes. Successful breeding typically requires very large, well-maintained tanks.
Aquarium Care and Tank Requirements:
Due to their size and specific dietary needs, Opal Plecos require a medium to large aquarium, with a minimum of 50-75 gallons recommended for adult specimens. The tank should have a soft, sandy, or fine gravel substrate to prevent injury to their delicate barbels. Include plenty of hiding spots created with rocks, driftwood, and caves to mimic their natural habitat and reduce stress. Efficient filtration and regular water changes are essential to maintaining water quality, as these fish produce a significant amount of waste. The water temperature should be kept between 77-86°F (25-30°C), with a pH of 6.5-7.5 and soft to moderately hard water.
Ideal Tank Mates:
Opal Plecos can be kept with other peaceful fish that share similar water parameter requirements. Suitable tank mates include tetras, rasboras, dwarf cichlids, and other small catfish. Avoid housing them with large, aggressive species that may cause stress or injury.
Difficulty Level:
Intermediate. While Opal Plecos are hardy and adaptable, they require specific tank conditions and diet to thrive, making them suitable for aquarists with some experience.
Water Parameters:
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Temperature: 77-86°F (25-30°C)
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pH: 6.5-7.5
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General Hardness (GH): 5-15 dGH
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Carbonate Hardness (KH): 4-10 dKH
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Ammonia: 0 ppm (ideal)
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Nitrite: 0 ppm (ideal)
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Nitrate: <20 ppm (ideal)
Additional Information:
- The Opal Pleco’s vibrant opal-colored spots and fin margins make it a striking addition to any medium to large aquarium.
- They are known for their peaceful nature and ability to coexist with a variety of tank mates, provided they are not too small.
