Snowflake Pleco L177 (Baryancistrus niveatus) Care Guide

Baryancistrus niveatus is a large spotted Loricariid pleco from the Tocantins and Xingu basins; a herbivorous biofilm grazer needing a spacious, warm, oxygen-rich tank.

Overview

Baryancistrus niveatus is a large suckermouth pleco of the family Loricariidae and the type species of the genus Baryancistrus (tribe Ancistrini). In the aquarium trade the light-spotted forms carry the L-number L177. Most species of the genus reach up to around 34 cm in total length and bear a membrane connecting the dorsal and adipose fins.

Taxonomy

Family: Loricariidae
Scientific name: Baryancistrus niveatus
Subfamily: Hypostominae
Common synonyms: L177, Snowflake Pleco

Habitat

FishBase records the species from the Tocantins, Xingu, Tapajós and Trombetas river basins in Brazil; the L177 form is associated with the Rio Xingu around the Rio Iriri confluence. Baryancistrus inhabit flowing, clearwater stretches, so the aquarium should offer warm, well-oxygenated water with moderate current and rocky or wooden hiding places.

Tank requirements

Minimum tank volume: 400 L (106 gal)
Adult size: 25-30 cm (9.8-11.8 in)
Temperature: 24-28 °C (75-82 °F)
pH: 6-7.5
GH: 2-12 °dGH
Lifespan: 8-12 years

Diet

The genus is mainly herbivorous and detritivorous, grazing algae and biofilm and needing food available throughout the day. A vegetable-rich diet (blanched vegetables, spirulina) plus the biofilm growing on wood and rock suits it, with only modest amounts of meatier foods.

Compatibility

It keeps to the bottom and is peaceful toward unrelated fish, but males of the genus can be strongly territorial toward one another and may fight on sight. Keeping more than one specimen requires generous space and visual barriers of rock and wood. It mixes with calm mid-water fish such as tetras and Corydoras.

Breeding

Sexing is difficult even in adults, and most Baryancistrus species have probably not been bred in captivity.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List assessed the species as Vulnerable (2022).