Ancistrus brevipinnis (L059) Care Guide
Ancistrus brevipinnis (L059) is a short-finned bristlenose catfish, a peaceful algae-grazing loricariid for medium community tanks.
Overview
Ancistrus brevipinnis is a bristlenose catfish of the family Loricariidae, known in the hobby as L059. It is a smaller member of the genus with reduced fin length. As with all Ancistrus, mature males develop fleshy tentacles on the head, a feature largely absent in females.
Taxonomy
- Family: Loricariidae
- Genus: Ancistrus
- Scientific name: Ancistrus brevipinnis
- Tribe: Ancistrini
- L-number: L059
Habitat
Wikipedia describes the genus Ancistrus as native to freshwater habitats in South America and Panama, with many species in Amazon-basin rivers and floodplains. These are nocturnal fish that prefer flowing, well-oxygenated water and require driftwood and caves.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 120 L (about 32 gal)
- Temperature: 24-28 °C (75-82 °F)
- pH: 6.0-7.5
- GH: 2-12 °dGH
- Lifespan: 8-12 years
Seriously Fish recommends well-oxygenated water and plenty of cover for Ancistrus, with strong filtration and ample décor.
Diet
Wikipedia states the diet of Ancistrus consists of algae, aufwuchs and detritus, and notes there is no scientific evidence that the genus feeds on wood. Seriously Fish recommends sinking foods, frozen items and fresh vegetables. Fed around once daily.
Compatibility
Seriously Fish describes Ancistrus as relatively peaceful but territorial toward conspecifics and similarly shaped species. It is a bottom-dweller that suits medium community tanks with tetras and Corydoras, but other territorial plecos should be avoided.
Breeding
Ancistrus are cave-spawners. Wikipedia and Seriously Fish report that the male guards the eggs, which hatch in roughly 4-10 days, and continues to protect the fry for a period afterward.