Calico Bristlenose Care Guide
The calico bristlenose is a captive-bred multicolour Ancistrus, a peaceful algae-grazing loricariid catfish for community tanks.
Overview
The calico bristlenose is a captive-bred multicolour form of Ancistrus, a genus of bristlenose catfish in the family Loricariidae. It shows orange, black and white patches. As with all Ancistrus, mature males develop fleshy tentacles on the head, largely absent in females.
Taxonomy
- Family: Loricariidae
- Genus: Ancistrus
- Scientific name: Ancistrus sp. 'Calico'
- Tribe: Ancistrini
- Note: captive-bred colour form
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; the calico form is produced in captivity.
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, plenty of cover and strong filtration for Ancistrus, with driftwood and caves provided.
Diet
Wikipedia states the diet of Ancistrus consists of algae, aufwuchs and detritus, with 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. This bottom-dweller suits community tanks with tetras and Corydoras, while other territorial plecos should be avoided.
Breeding
Ancistrus are cave-spawners and are commonly bred in aquaria. Wikipedia and Seriously Fish report that the male guards the eggs, which hatch in roughly 4-10 days, and protects the fry afterward; juveniles may appear in mature setups without intervention.