Bristlenose Pleco

Ancistrus sp.

CatfishBeginner
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Species Details

Popular small pleco that stays manageable size. Males develop characteristic bristles and are excellent algae eaters.

Beginner Care Level

Basic Information

Size10-15 cm (4-6 inches)
TemperamentPeaceful
DietHerbivorous
Lifespan5-8 years
Tank Size150+ litres (40+ gallons)

Water Parameters

Temperature
22-28°C (72-82°F)
pH Level
6.0-7.5
Hardness
5-20 dGH

Tank Mate Recommendations

Based on 1 selected species

Current Selection:

Bristlenose Pleco
Fully Compatible Species
Compatible

Malawian Cichlids

Various Pseudotropheus, Melanochromis, Labidochromis

Cichlids
Size:7.6-15.2 cm (3-6 inches)
Care Level:Intermediate
Temperament:Aggressive/Territorial
100%
Compatible

Angelfish

Pterophyllum scalare

Cichlids
Size:15 cm tall, 20 cm long (6 inches tall, 8 inches long)
Care Level:Beginner
Temperament:Peaceful/Semi-aggressive
100%
Compatible

Tanganyikan Cichlids

Various Lamprologus, Julidochromis, Neolamprologus

Cichlids
Size:5-20 cm (2-8 inches)
Care Level:Intermediate
Temperament:Semi-aggressive
100%
Compatible

Bronze Corydoras

Corydoras aeneus

Catfish
Size:7 cm (2.8 inches)
Care Level:Beginner
Temperament:Peaceful
100%
Compatible

Peppered Corydoras

Corydoras paleatus

Catfish
Size:7 cm (2.8 inches)
Care Level:Beginner
Temperament:Peaceful
100%
Compatible

Panda Corydoras

Corydoras panda

Catfish
Size:5 cm (2 inches)
Care Level:Intermediate
Temperament:Peaceful
100%

💡 Tank Mate Tips

• Consider adult size when planning tank space

• Research specific water parameter requirements

• Introduce new fish gradually to reduce stress

• Monitor behavior closely during the first weeks

Quick Facts

Small pleco perfect for home aquariums

Males develop distinctive bristles on snout

Excellent algae eater and cleanup crew

Stays reasonably small at 10-15 cm (4-6 inches)

Herbivorous diet with vegetable supplements

Breeds readily in aquariums

Lives 5-8 years with proper care

Much better choice than Common Pleco

Needs driftwood for rasping and digestion

Peaceful and suitable for community tanks

Compatibility Summary

Compatible Species6
Requires Caution3
View full compatibility analysis →

Care Requirements

Tank Size150+ litres (40+ gallons)
Temperature22-28°C (72-82°F)
pH6.0-7.5
Hardness5-20 dGH

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