Overview
The Bristlenose Pleco (Ancistrus spp.) is a beginner freshwater species known for its brown-gray, light spots coloration. Best algae-eating pleco for most tanks. Bottom and Surfaces.
Origin & Appearance
Origin: South America.
Colors: Brown-Gray, Light spots.
Body Shape: Depressiform (bottom-flat). Typical adult dimensions: 15.0 x 7.5 x 1.8.
Sexual Dimorphism: Strong; males have bushy bristle tentacles on nose.
Tank & Water Requirements
| Min Tank Size | 20 gallons |
| Temperature | 73–81°F |
| pH Range | 6–7.5 |
| Water Hardness (GH) | 3-15 |
| Bioload | medium |
| Oxygen Demand | medium |
| Plant Safe | yes |
| Aquarium Position | Bottom and Surfaces |
Behavior & Activity
Nocturnal sucker; clings to surfaces and slowly rasps algae; moves in slow deliberate crawls between grazing patches at night
Speed: 20/100Aggression: 2/10nocturnal
Breeding
Easy; cave spawner; male guards eggs
Common Diseases
💊 Ich💊 sensitive to copper
Expert Notes
Best algae-eating pleco for most tanks
Compatible Tank Mates
✓ neon tetra✓ corydoras catfish✓ guppy✓ cherry shrimp✓ mystery snail✓ betta fish✓ angelfish✓ goldfish✓ harlequin rasbora✓ ember tetra✓ platy