L034 Medusa Pleco (Ancistrus ranunculus) - Brazil

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The L034 Medusa Pleco is one of the most striking and unique members of the Loricariidae family. Known for its distinctive facial bristles and jet-black coloration, this rare species adds an extraordinary visual element to any aquascape. Native to Brazil’s Xingu River basin, it thrives in highly oxygenated, fast-flowing waters over smooth stones and sandy substrate.

What We Love About This Fish:

• Exotic Appearance: Distinctive “Medusa-like” bristles on the head give this pleco its name.
• Jet-Black Beauty: Deep black coloration with a subtle metallic sheen under aquarium lighting.
• Peaceful Temperament: Calm and compatible with most community fish.
• Functional and Fascinating: Helps maintain surface cleanliness while adding visual intrigue.

Natural Habitat:

The Medusa Pleco originates from the Rio Xingu in Brazil, a clearwater tributary of the Amazon characterized by fast-moving water, high oxygen levels, and rocky substrates. These natural conditions should be simulated in the aquarium with good water movement, stable temperatures, and high-quality filtration.

Aquascaping:

• Plants: Hardy, anchored species like Anubias, Java Fern, and Bucephalandra.
• Hardscape: Smooth river rocks, driftwood, and pleco caves for shelter.
• Botanicals: Indian Almond Leaves, Catappa Bark, or alder cones to promote natural water chemistry and biofilm growth.

Diet and Feeding:

Although often seen grazing surfaces, this pleco is not a strict algae eater. Offer a balanced diet of sinking algae wafers, spirulina pellets, blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach), and high-protein foods such as frozen bloodworms or Repashy blends. Access to driftwood is beneficial for digestion and rasping behavior.

Tank Mates and Compatibility:

The Medusa Pleco is peaceful and does well in community aquariums with small tetras, rasboras, and other non-aggressive fish. Avoid housing with territorial bottom dwellers or fin-nipping species.

Shrimp Compatibility:

Generally safe with adult shrimp, particularly larger Neocaridina and Caridina species. However, newly hatched shrimp fry may be at risk of accidental predation, so providing ample cover with mosses or dense plants is recommended.

Breeding:

In nature, this species spawns in narrow rock crevices. In aquariums, provide tight-fitting caves, strong water flow, and high oxygen levels. Males guard eggs and young until they become free-swimming.

Recommended Tank Parameters:

• Temperature: 78° – 86° F (26° – 30° C)
• pH: 6.4 – 7.4
• KH: 2 – 8 dKH
• Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons

Care Guidelines:

• Diet: Omnivorous; requires a mix of plant and protein-based foods.
• Social Behavior: Peaceful; best kept singly or with other calm species.
• Origin: Wild-collected from the Xingu River, Brazil.
• Average Adult Size: 4.5 – 5 inches (11 – 13 cm)
• Average Purchase Size: 2.5 – 3.5 inches (6 – 9 cm)

Bring home the mysterious beauty of the L034 Medusa Pleco — a rare and fascinating species prized for its elegance, calm nature, and signature “Medusa” appearance.

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