Common Name: L34 Medusa Pleco
Scientific Name: Ancistrus ranunculus
Other Names: Medusa Ancistrus, Medusa Whiptail Pleco
The L34 Medusa Pleco is a unique-looking Ancistrus species known for its flattened body, broad head, and numerous short, fleshy tentacle-like growths around its snout, giving it a “Medusa” appearance. Unlike many other Ancistrusspecies, it has a more armored and compact structure, making it well-suited for life in fast-moving waters. Its dark coloration, usually deep brown or black with subtle patterns, helps it blend into rocky environments.
Habitat and Distribution:
Native to the Tocantins River Basin in Brazil, the L34 Medusa Pleco inhabits fast-flowing, well-oxygenated waters with rocky substrates. It is commonly found in crevices and caves, using its sucker mouth to cling to surfaces and scrape biofilm and small invertebrates for food. The water in its natural habitat is warm and clear, requiring excellent filtration and oxygenation in captivity.
Size and Lifespan:
This species grows to about 5-7 inches (13-18 cm). With proper care, it can live for 10-12 years.
Diet and Behavior:
The Medusa Pleco is an omnivore but leans toward a more carnivorous diet compared to other Ancistrus species. In the wild, it feeds on small invertebrates, biofilm, and detritus. In captivity, its diet should include high-quality sinking carnivore pellets, frozen or live foods such as bloodworms, blackworms, and chopped raw tilapia, along with occasional plant-based foods like spirulina wafers and blanched zucchini. It is generally peaceful but can be territorial toward other bottom dwellers if space is limited.
Breeding and Reproduction:
Breeding Ancistrus ranunculus in captivity is challenging. Like other Ancistrus species, it is a cave spawner, with males guarding the eggs inside chosen shelters. To encourage breeding, provide multiple caves, maintain stable water conditions, and ensure a protein-rich diet. Once hatched, fry can be fed finely crushed sinking foods and baby brine shrimp.
Aquarium Care and Tank Requirements:
A minimum of 40 gallons is recommended for a single specimen, with a larger tank (55+ gallons) preferred for multiple plecos. Their ideal tank setup includes a fine gravel or sand substrate, numerous rock caves and driftwood for shelter, strong filtration with high oxygenation, moderate to strong water flow to replicate river conditions, and subdued lighting to encourage natural behaviors.
Ideal Tank Mates:
The Medusa Pleco is peaceful and does well with other non-aggressive species. Suitable tank mates include Tetras, Corydoras, Rasboras, Dwarf Cichlids (Apistogramma and Ram Cichlids), Angelfish, and other small to medium-sized South American fish. Avoid overly aggressive or territorial plecos unless the tank is large enough to establish separate territories.
Difficulty Level:
Intermediate. They require stable water conditions, a well-oxygenated tank, and a high-protein diet to thrive.
Water Parameters:
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Temperature: 77-84°F (25-29°C)
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pH: 6.0-7.5
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General Hardness (GH): 4-12 dGH
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Carbonate Hardness (KH): 3-8 dKH
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Ammonia: 0 ppm
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Nitrite: 0 ppm
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Nitrate: <20 ppm (regular water changes required)
Additional Information:
- Due to their natural habitat, they require high oxygen levels, making strong filtration and aeration essential.
- They are more carnivorous than typical Ancistrus species, so a protein-rich diet is necessary.
- Their unique head structure and tentacle-like growths make them one of the most visually distinctive plecos available.
The L34 Medusa Pleco is a fascinating and visually striking species that makes a great addition to a well-maintained aquarium. With proper care, it will thrive and display its unique appearance for many years.
