Pleco-Red Jewel Bristlenose (30-40mm)


Price:
Sale priceR 125.00
Stock:
In stock (10 units), ready to be shipped

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.

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