More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 75 litres / 19.81 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 13.0cm / 5.12inches |
| Temperature | 25°C / 77.00°F - 30°C / 86.00°F |
| Hardness | 2.02dgH / 36ppm - 10.03dgH / 179ppm |
| pH | 6.0-7.0 |
General Description
Ancistrus Ranunculus, commonly known as Medusa Plec or L034, is a peculiar-looking species belonging to the Loricariidae family. With a distinct wide head and flattened profile, this fish can grow up to 13.0cm in size. Typically found in the Rio Xingu and Rio Tocantins basins in Brazil, it thrives in shallow, fast-flowing waters among rocky substrates.
Aquarium Setup
For optimal care, a tank setup of at least 75 litres is recommended. Creating a stream-type environment with a gravel or sand substrate, rounded stones, and rocks resembling its natural biotope is essential. While it can adapt to a planted tank, the species prefers well-oxygenated water with significant movement, which may hinder the growth of live plants.
Behaviour
This species is generally peaceful but may exhibit territorial behavior when kept in groups. To minimize conflicts, each fish should have its own refuge in the tank. Good tankmates include characins like Anostomus and Hemiodus, as well as reophilic cichlids such as Retroculus. However, due to its specialized requirements, it may not be suitable for a general community setup.
Feeding and Diet
Medusa Plecs require a more protein-rich diet than other Ancistrus species. It is best to supplement their diet with quality sinking dried foods along with regular offerings of live and frozen foods like bloodworms, chopped mussels, and prawns to ensure their nutritional needs are met.
Reproduction & Dimorphism
Breeding Ancistrus Ranunculus can be challenging, requiring a separate spawning tank with caves and refuges for successful reproduction. Males develop tentacles on their heads and take on the responsibility of guarding the eggs and fry. The females play minimal roles in broodcare, with the male diligently fanning the eggs and tending to the young until they are self-sufficient.
Habitat and Distribution
In the wild, Ancistrus Ranunculus inhabits fast-flowing waters with rocky substrates in the Rio Xingu and Rio Tocantins basins of Brazil. This species thrives in environments with a pH range of 6.0-7.0, hardness of 36-179ppm, and a temperature of 25-30°C, replicating its natural habitat conditions.