Bristlenose plec
Alternative Name(s): Bushynose plec
Scientific Name(s): Ancistrus sp.
Category: Tropical
Difficulty:
Maximum Size: 15cms
Minimum Tank Volume: 90 litres
Minimum Tank Size: 3ft
Water Temperature Range: 22-27°C
Water pH Range: 5.8-7.5
Water Hardness Range: 1-16 dGH
General Information: It is hard to mistake the Bristlenose with its bristles. Many people may think they are ugly, but others see them as uniquely appealing.
Tank Requirements: Provide good cover/caves of bogwood, stones, rocks etc. Many sites recommend these for smaller tanks, however our experience of their need to have length for swimming, and their heavy bioload means we feel 3ft is the minimum needed for them to truly thrive.
Diet Requirements: Bristlenoses will feed on algae although this is insufficient to properly feed them. They should also have cucumber, courgette, lettuce, spinach, boiled potatoes and shelled peas and algae waferss/sinking pellets. Will take small live foods which should be offered occasionally.
Compatibility: They are very peaceful and solitary. They will even leave fry alone and can be kept with small to medium sized Cichlids.
Recommendations: The Bristlenose will need a cave and lots of hiding places. They prefer a current and water with plenty of oxygen.
Common Problems: You can keep one male or a sexed pair in a 90L tank, but you would need a bigger tank of around 4ft to house two males as they are very territorial.
Similar Species: Many other small "plecs" - Hypancitrus, Peckoltia etc.
Sexing: Males have bristles females don't.
Breeding: One of the easiest plecs to breed. The male will find a spawning ground, usually a cave, and will defend it. The female will lay the eggs at the spawning ground and the male will protect the eggs.
Author(s): Violet, Fishlady | Photo: | Views: 35259
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