Pleco-Bristlenose

All our fish, shrimp and corals are bagged with fresh oxygen as well as a heat pack in winter.

When ordering livestock please select the box size and add it to your cart for accurate overnight (1-2 days) shipping costs. A small box can take 1-2 bags and a medium box 6 bags. One bag fits max 10 small (1-3cm) fish or max 2 medium (3-5cm) fish or max 1 large (>5cm) fish.

ONE SPECIES PER BAG. Eg: One bag of 10 neon tetra

Bristlenose Pleco (Ancistrus sp.)

Description:

• Appearance:

  • Size: Typically grows to about 3-5 inches (7.5-12.5 cm) in length, though some can reach up to 6 inches (15 cm).
  • Color: Generally brown or gray with light spots or stripes. Some varieties are albino or have a more distinctive coloration.
  • Body Shape: Compact and robust body with a broad head. Males have distinctive bristle-like appendages on their snout, which give them their name.

• Behavior:

  • Activity Level: Mostly nocturnal, active during the night.
  • Social Behavior: Peaceful but can be territorial. Prefers to be alone or with a few other peaceful species.

Care Requirements:

• Tank Size:

  • Minimum: 20 gallons (76 liters). Larger tanks are better for stability and more space for grazing.

• Tank Setup:

  • Substrate: Prefers a soft, sandy substrate or smooth gravel. Avoid sharp or rough materials that could injure their delicate undersides.
  • Decorations: Provide hiding spots such as driftwood, caves, or rocks. They enjoy exploring and resting in these sheltered areas.
  • Plants: Live plants can be added, and they may occasionally graze on algae on plant surfaces.

• Water Parameters:

  • Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C). Maintain a stable temperature within this range.
  • pH: 6.5-7.5. Slightly acidic to neutral.
  • Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water.
  • Filtration: Good filtration is important, but ensure the current is not too strong. A sponge filter can be a good choice to provide gentle water movement.

• Diet:

  • Primary Food: Primarily herbivorous. Feed a diet rich in vegetable matter such as algae wafers, spirulina pellets, and blanched vegetables like zucchini or cucumber.
  • Supplemental Food: Occasionally supplement with protein-rich foods like bloodworms or brine shrimp.

• Behavioral Considerations:

  • Compatibility: Generally peaceful and can be kept with other community fish, including small to medium-sized tankmates. Avoid keeping with overly aggressive species.
  • Tank Mates: Suitable tank mates include small to medium-sized peaceful fish like tetras, rasboras, and other non-aggressive species.

• Tank Maintenance:

  • Water Changes: Regular water changes (20-30% weekly) are essential to maintain water quality and prevent the buildup of waste.
  • Cleaning: Keep the tank clean and monitor the filter. Regularly check for algae and clean as needed.

• Health Care:

  • Observation: Watch for signs of stress, disease, or injury. Common issues include skin problems or internal parasites.
  • Treatment: Maintain good water quality and promptly address any health issues with appropriate treatments. Consult an aquarium specialist if necessary.

• Additional Notes:

  • Lifespan: Typically 5-10 years with proper care.
  • Breeding: Bristlenose plecos are cave spawners. Males will guard the eggs and fry after spawning. Providing caves or spawning sites will encourage breeding.