Ancistrus cirrhosus var. Golden Leopard- Ancistrus cirrhosus distribution
Family: Loricariidae;
Genus: Ancistrus;
Species and synonyms: Golden Leopard Pleco (Ancistrus cirrhosus var. Golden Leopard, Golden Leopard Bushy Nose Pleco, Golden Leopard Pleco).
GBIF:
Golden Leopard Pleco (lat. Ancistrus cirrhosus var. Golden Leopard) is a selective breed of the species Ancistrus cirrhosus from the order Siluriformes, family Loricariidae, genus Ancistrus. One of the brightest and most popular selective breeds of bristlenose plecos in the aquarium hobby.
Distribution. A selective breed developed in aquarium conditions. Not found in the wild. The original species (Ancistrus cirrhosus) inhabits rivers and streams of South America, mainly in the Amazon, Orinoco and Paraná basins in Brazil, Colombia, Venezuela, Paraguay and other countries.
Care requirements. The Golden Leopard Pleco grows up to 10–12 cm in the aquarium. To keep a group, an aquarium of at least 100 liters with a length of 80 cm is recommended. Optimal water parameters: temperature 22–28°C, hardness 5–15 dGH, pH 6.0–7.5. Filtration with moderate flow, aeration and weekly water changes of 20–25% are necessary. Sandy or fine gravel substrate, driftwood, stones and shelters are placed at the bottom. Plants are planted in the substrate, creating dense thickets.
Golden Leopard Plecos are omnivorous, feeding on algae, detritus, small invertebrates and organic debris in the wild. In the aquarium, their diet should consist of high-quality sinking pellets, flakes, plant components (spirulina, blanched vegetables, algae), as well as live and frozen foods (bloodworms, tubifex, brine shrimp). It is important to ensure a constant supply of plant food. Feed should be 1–2 times a day in small portions.
In the aquarium, Golden Leopard Plecos are active in the lower water layers, often attaching to glass, stones and driftwood. They are peaceful and get along well with any peaceful fish. Recommended tankmates include tetras, rasboras, danios, barbs, gouramis, angelfish, other catfish and any peaceful fish. It is not recommended to keep them with large or aggressive fish that may bully them.
Breeding in home aquariums is possible under proper conditions. Bristlenose plecos are egg-laying fish, spawning in caves, under driftwood or in ceramic tubes. They reach sexual maturity at 8–10 months. To stimulate spawning, water changes with fresh, cool water and increased aeration are recommended. The male guards the eggs and fry. Eggs incubate for 4–7 days, fry are fed infusoria, Artemia nauplii and fine dry food.
The Golden Leopard Pleco gets its name from its bright coloration: the body is golden-yellow with dark spots resembling a leopard pattern. Males develop characteristic fleshy tentacles (bristles) on the head, which are absent or weakly expressed in females. It is one of the most popular and colorful selective breeds of bristlenose plecos, suitable for intermediate aquarists. Life expectancy is 8–12 years.