Bristlenose Pleco (Ancistrus cirrhosus)

Fish in the family Loricariidae. Easy care. Freshwater.

Quick facts

Scientific nameAncistrus cirrhosus

FamilyLoricariidae

Also known asBushynose Pleco, Bristlenose Catfish, BN Pleco

Care levelEasy

Reef safetyFreshwater

TemperamentPeaceful

Dietherbivore

Adult size5 in

Minimum tank size30 gallons

Water parametersTemp 73-81°F, pH 6.0-7.8, GH 2-20 dGH

Appearance

Flattened mottled brown-grey body; mature males grow fleshy bristly tentacles on the snout.

Difficulty and care for the Bristlenose Pleco

Easy

Origin and habitat

South America (Amazon basin)

Keeper notes

Peaceful; males may squabble over caves but harmless to other fish.

Log Bristlenose Pleco in your reef tank

Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Bristlenose Pleco alongside everything else in your reef.

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