Bristle nose pleco

Bristlenose Catfish (Ancistrus sp.) are small, peaceful freshwater fish from South American rivers. They grow up to 12 cm and are excellent algae eaters for community aquariums. Available in albino, mottled, orange, snow white, and long-finned varieties, they prefer mature tanks with plenty of hiding spots.

Tank Setup & Environment

• Well-planted aquariums with bogwood, driftwood, caves, or slate piles for grazing and hiding

• Strong water current with good oxygenation

• Can be kept with most small to medium community fish

• Occasional minor territorial disputes if multiple specimens are kept

Water Conditions

• Temperature: 23–27°C

• pH: 5.5–8.0

• Hardness: up to 20 dH

• Must be added to mature, stable aquariums

Diet

• Primarily vegetarian; algae is essential

• Supplement with algae wafers, tablets, cucumber, lettuce, or peeled peas

• Can accept sinking meatier and frozen foods occasionally

Breeding

• Cave spawners; male guards up to 120 eggs in caves or crevices

• Separate softwater breeding tank recommended for higher fry survival

• Eggs hatch in 5 days; fry become free-swimming in 10–14 days