Bristlenose Pleco (Ancistrus cf. cirrhosus) Care Guide
Compact algae-eating loricariid catfish from South America. Mature males develop characteristic fleshy bristles on the snout. Hardy and easy to breed in home tanks.
Overview
The Bristlenose Pleco is a compact suckermouth catfish in the family Loricariidae. Most aquarium fish sold under this name belong to Ancistrus cf. cirrhosus, a commercially produced complex of closely related forms. Males develop the fleshy tentacle-like bristles on the snout that give the group its common name.
Taxonomy
- Family: Loricariidae
- Genus: Ancistrus
- Scientific name: Ancistrus cf. cirrhosus
Habitat
Members of the genus Ancistrus occur in freshwater habitats across South America and Panama. The true Ancistrus cirrhosus is associated with the Parana River drainage in Argentina and Uruguay, although the precise origin of the aquarium-bred form is uncertain. Natural habitats feature submerged wood, rocks and moderate current.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 75 L
- Temperature: 22-28 °C
- pH: 5.5-7.5
- GH: 2-20 °dGH
- Lifespan: 5-12 years
- Adult size: 10-15 cm
Diet
Predominantly herbivorous, feeding on algae, aufwuchs and detritus. In the aquarium it accepts algae wafers, sinking herbivore pellets, blanched vegetables such as zucchini and spinach, and occasional protein items like bloodworm. Driftwood should be provided as it is grazed and aids digestion.
Compatibility
Generally peaceful but territorial toward conspecifics and similarly shaped catfish, so multiple males require ample space and caves. Combines well with most peaceful community fish including Corydoras, tetras, livebearers and Angelfish. Large, aggressive species and the much bigger Common Pleco should be avoided.
Breeding
A cave-spawner that breeds readily in well-maintained aquaria. Females deposit a cluster of adhesive eggs on the ceiling of a cave; the male fans and guards the brood through hatching. Fry attach to surfaces and begin grazing on biofilm within a few days.
Conservation status
The aquarium-traded Bristlenose Pleco complex is supported almost entirely by commercial breeding, so trade demand has minimal impact on wild populations.