Bristlenose Plec Tropical Fish Information
Ancistrus sp.Behaviour Peaceful algae eater, some fish may occasionally squabble
Typical size 12cm
Max size 15cm
Tank Area Bottom
Min Tank Size 80cm
Temp Min: 22℃ Max: 28℃
Feeding Sinking, frozen, vegetable, live. Requires algae based foods
pH Range 6-8.5
Hardness vs,s,m,h,vh

Bristlenose Plec (Ancistrus sp.)
Bristlenose Plec Tropical Fish Learn all about the Bristlenose Plec's feeding habits and food types, its behaviour, its origins, its natural habitats, is it male or female, breeding advice and information, suitable tank mates, its sizing and growth range, minimum tank size, water PH and more. Use our fish community creator tool to plan your tank set up and ensure that the Bristlenose Plec is the right fish for your aquarium.
The 'Bristlenose Plec' is a common name that covers a number of different species of Ancistrus, most commonly Ancistrus temminckii. Because the species of fish you purchase may be one of a number of fish it is difficult to accurately describe the Bristlenose Plec. In general, Bristlenoses will normally reach between 10-15cm and make a good alternative to the common plecostomus or plec, which will outgrow most aquariums. The Bristlenose plec is an excellent aquarium fish, which although naturally nocturnal, can often be seen 'out and about' scavenging and algae eating. The fish develop distinct personalities that add to their interest for the fishkeeper. The Bristlenose Plec is an excellent algae eater although it will damage delicate plant species. Although details are not easily available, it is generally recognized that organisms residing on the outer layers of bogwood are used by the Bristlenose as part of its digestive system. Bristlenose's kept in aquariums without bogwood often experience an early death.
Bristlenose Plec Facts
Family Loricariidae (Armoured catfishes) | Origin South America | Breeding Egglayer, eggs are laid in hollows. The male guards the nest and cares for the eggs. Fry hatch after around 4-5 days and feed off the yolk sac for up to two weeks | Natural Water Conditions pH 5.5-7.5, very soft to very hard | Natural Habitat Most species are usually found in clear fast-flowing tributaries in the Amazon basin | Sexing Males head 'bristles' or tentacles are obviously larger
Bristlenose Plec Help and Advice
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