Bristlenose Pleco

Bristlenose Pleco (Ancistrus sp.) is a hardy, bottom-dwelling catfish native to freshwater rivers and streams of South America, particularly the Amazon Basin. Easily identified by its flattened body, sucker mouth, and the fleshy bristles that develop on the snout (most prominent in males), it is one of the most popular algae-eating fish in the hobby.

Key Care Points:

• Behavior & Swimming: Peaceful and mostly nocturnal, though it will occasionally graze during the day. They spend most of their time clinging to surfaces, scraping algae, or resting on the substrate.

• Diet: Primarily herbivorous. Eats algae, sinking algae wafers, blanched vegetables (zucchini, cucumber, carrots), and occasionally accepts protein-rich foods.

• Lifespan: Typically 5–8 years in aquariums, sometimes longer with excellent care.

• Max Size: Reaches 4–6 inches (10–15 cm).

• Growth Rate: Moderate; juveniles grow quickly at first, then slow as they reach adulthood.

The Bristlenose Pleco is an efficient algae controller and a hardy addition to most community aquariums.