Bristlenose Pleco (2-3cm)

Common Name: Bristlenose Pleco
Scientific Name: Ancistrus cirrhosus
Size: 8 - 12 cm
Lifespan: 5-12 years
Temperament: Peaceful
Tank Level: Bottom dweller

1. Tank Setup

• Tank Size: Minimum 60 liters for a single Bristlenose Pleco. If you plan to keep more, increase the tank size accordingly.

• Substrate: Fine gravel or sand is ideal as it allows the pleco to sift through easily and won't damage their delicate barbels.

• Décor:

  • Hiding Spots: Bristlenose plecos are nocturnal and prefer to hide during the day. Include driftwood, caves, and rocks to provide shelter.
  • Driftwood: Essential for plecos as they will graze on it. The wood helps with digestion and provides beneficial fibres.

• Filtration & Water Flow: Moderate water flow is sufficient. Plecos like clean water, so good filtration is important to maintain water quality.

2. Water Parameters

• Temperature: 22°C to 28°C
• pH: 6.5 - 8.0
• Water Hardness: Soft to medium (2-15 dGH)

Regular water changes (25-30% weekly) help maintain optimal water conditions and reduce waste buildup, important for a bottom-dweller like a pleco.

3. Feeding

Bristlenose Plecos are omnivores, but they have a strong preference for plant-based foods.

• Algae: They naturally graze on algae in the tank, but algae alone is not sufficient for their diet in captivity.

• Vegetables: Supplement their diet with fresh vegetables like:

  • Zucchini
  • Cucumber
  • Peas (blanched)
  • Spinach

  Secure the vegetables to the bottom of the tank with clips or weights to allow easy access.

• Pellets & Wafers: Offer high-quality sinking pellets or algae wafers. Look for formulas designed specifically for plecos to ensure they are getting all the necessary nutrients.

• Protein: Occasionally feed them frozen or live foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, or even shrimp pellets to ensure they get enough protein.

4. Tank Mates

Bristlenose Plecos are peaceful fish and can be kept with a wide range of tank mates, including:

• Tetras, Rasboras, Corydoras
• Angelfish, Gouramis
• Livebearers (e.g., guppies, mollies)

Avoid keeping them with large, aggressive fish like cichlids, which may stress or harm them.

5. Breeding

Bristlenose Plecos are relatively easy to breed in a home aquarium.

• Sexing: Males tend to have more pronounced "bristles" on their noses than females. Males also grow larger and are slightly more territorial.

• Breeding Setup:

  • Caves or hiding spots are necessary for spawning. The male will guard the eggs once they are laid.
  • Slightly increasing the water temperature (up to 80°F) and performing frequent water changes can trigger spawning behavior.

• Fry Care:

  • Once the fry hatch, they will feed on the same types of food as the adults, such as algae and blanched vegetables, but in smaller portions.
  • Provide plenty of hiding places for the fry to feel safe.

6. Common Health Issues

• Bloating: Overfeeding or a lack of plant material can cause bloating in plecos. To avoid this, keep their diet balanced and fiber-rich.

• Ich (White Spot Disease): Plecos can develop ich if water quality is poor or they are stressed. Raising the tank temperature slightly and treating with appropriate medications usually resolves this.

• Fin Rot: Poor water quality or aggression from tank mates can lead to fin rot. Maintain clean water and remove aggressive fish if necessary.

7. Behavior & Activity

• Nocturnal: Bristlenose Plecos are most active at night. While you may see them exploring during the day, they'll primarily hide and remain inactive.

• Algae Eaters: They are excellent at keeping algae in check but shouldn’t be relied upon as the sole solution for algae control in the tank.

• Territorial: Male Bristlenose Plecos can become territorial, especially during breeding. Provide plenty of hiding spots to reduce aggression.

Bristlenose Plecos are hardy, peaceful, and useful tank cleaners. They are great for both beginner and experienced aquarists, provided you give them a proper diet, plenty of hiding spots, and clean water conditions.