Bristlenose pleco
Ancistrus cirrhosus
Ancistrus cirrhosus reaches 12-15 cm. Its body is ventrally flattened, covered with bony plates. The mouth is a sucker. Adult males develop fleshy tentacles on the snout. Coloration is brown to olive with light spots. The fins are broad. It is a nocturnal and territorial fish towards its own kind. It feeds mainly on algae and biofilm. It is very hardy and suitable for community aquariums.
Recommended parameters
| Parameter | Recommended range |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 24–28 |
| pH | 6.5–7.5 |
| GH | 5–15 |
| KH | 3–8 |
| NO₃ | ≤ 20 |
| PO₄ | ≤ 0.5 |
Care
Care notes
A tank of at least 100 L is recommended. Water should be well oxygenated, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-15, temperature 24-28°C. Moderate current is appreciated. Provide hiding places (rocks, roots, pipes). Omnivorous with herbivorous tendency: give blanched vegetables (zucchini, cucumber), algae wafers, and some protein. Avoid overstocking. Compatible with most peaceful fish. Males may fight.