Bristlenose Catfish

Ancistrus species

Bristlenose Catfish Scientific Name: Ancistrus
Bristlenose Catfish Common Name: Cat Fish, Bristlenose Pleco, or Bushynose Pleco
Bristlenose Catfish Size: 12cm 
Bristlenose Catfish Diet: Omnivore prefer vegetable matter
Bristlenose Catfish Water Type: Fresh
Bristlenose Catfish Life Span: 5-10 years

Bristlenose Catfish or Plecostomus (plecys) are one of the most popular tropical fish. The Bristlenose Catfish species come from South America, mostly from the tropics although some species are found outside the actual tropics.

Bristlenose Catfish Water Conditions:

The Bristlenose Catfish is quite flexible in its water requirements. It can live in water ranging from soft to hard, with a Gh range of from 2 to 20. Acid, neutral or alkaline pH all seem OK, although I would not subject this fish to extremes.

Although this is a tropical fish, it is not very tolerant of high temperatures. The generally recommended temperature range is from 23 to 27 degrees C. However, a prolonged temperature of 30 degrees C will cause these fish to die while they seem happy at well below the 23 degrees normally recommended minimum temperature. 
A water current from a power filter is a good idea. Avoid excessive levels of ammonia, nitrites and nitrates.

Some aquarium safe wood is recommended.

Sometimes called Bristlenose Pleco, or Bushynose Pleco, these fish are easy to look after and very hardy.

These fish will happily spend all day cleaning algae from your tank.

For more information feel free to ask one of our friendly Aquarium staff on 9629 3282.

Our aquarium collection is always changing and not all species are available at all times. Due to the natural diversity of fish, every animal is one of a kind! Our bristlenose catfish in-store may differ in size and appearance from images shown.