Xanthic Magnum Pleco L034

The Xanthic Magnum Pleco (L034) is an extraordinary colour variant of the Magnum Pleco group, in which the normal dark brown to black pigmentation is replaced by a vivid yellow-gold xanthic expression. These animals are exceedingly rare in the wild and highly prized by collectors. The base species is a large, robust carnivorous loricariid from the Orinoco system of Venezuela.

The Magnum Pleco is unusual among plecos for its predominantly carnivorous diet. In the aquarium it should be fed high-quality carnivore pellets, frozen foods including bloodworm, brine shrimp, mussels, and prawns, and meaty sinking wafers. Driftwood provides shelter but does not form a significant part of the diet. Excellent water quality with powerful filtration and strong flow are essential.

This species can be semi-aggressive toward conspecifics and other large bottom dwellers. House it as the sole large pleco in a spacious aquarium. Active, robust mid-water fish including large tetras and robust cichlids make suitable tankmates. The xanthic colouration is best maintained with warm, clean, well-oxygenated water and a varied diet.

Water: pH 6.0–7.5, temperature 25–29°C, GH 2–12, KH 1–6; high water quality and strong flow. Tank: 250 L minimum; large smooth cave structures, powerful filtration, minimal substrate. Feeding: Carnivore; sinking carnivore pellets, frozen bloodworm, brine shrimp, mussels, prawns. Breeding: Cave spawner; xanthic trait potentially heritable; large dedicated tank required. Compatibility: Semi-aggressive; best as sole large pleco with robust mid-water tankmates.