Bristlenose - Green Dragon

The Bristlenose Pleco (Ancistrus spp.) is a popular, hardy freshwater catfish. Unlike common plecos that grow up to 18 inches, they reach a manageable 4 to 6 inches, making them ideal cleaners for 20+ gallon community tanks. Males are easily identified by the unique, tentacle-like bristles on their snouts.

Quick Overview

• Care Level: Easy
• Size: 4 to 6 inches
• Lifespan: 5 to 8 years (sometimes up to 12 years)
• Temperament: Peaceful but can be territorial towards other bottom dwellers
• Water Parameters: Temperature: 68°F - 82°F, pH: 6.0 - 8.0

Diet & Tank Setup

While well-known as algae eaters, Bristlenose Plecos are actually omnivores and require a varied diet.

Diet:

• Supplement a base of high-quality sinking algae wafers with blanched vegetables like zucchini, cucumber, or green beans.

Driftwood:

• Essential for their digestive health; they rasp on the wood to aid in digestion.

Environment:

• They thrive with plenty of floor space, plants, caves, and hiding spots, as they are mostly nocturnal.

Behavior & Tank Mates

Bristlenose Plecos are peaceful community fish that can comfortably live alongside tetras, corydoras, and even delicate fish like discus.

However, mature males can be very territorial with one another. It is best to keep only one male per tank unless the aquarium is very large with plenty of visual barriers and hiding caves.