L144 Lemon Bristlenose Pleco

Ancistrus sp. L144

Also known as L144, Lemon BN Pleco, Lemon Bristlenose

Animalia›Chordata›Siluriformes›Loricariidae

The L144 Lemon Bristlenose Pleco is a small, peaceful algae-eating catfish prized for its bright yellow coloration and distinctive bristles on the head. This species is excellent for planted and community tanks, actively grazing on algae while remaining non-aggressive toward tankmates. They are hardy, easy to care for, and make an ideal addition for aquarists of all experience levels.

At a glance

Size: 3.5 in; 9 cm
Min tank: 20 gal; 76 L
Temp: 72–82°F; 22–28°C
pH: 6.0-7.5
GH: 71–179 ppm; 4–10 dGH
Temperament: Peaceful
Swims: Bottom
Lifespan: 5-8 yrs

Ammonia 0 ppm and nitrate under 20 ppm.

Care

Diet

L144 Lemon Bristlenose Plecos are primarily herbivorous and should be fed high-quality algae wafers, spirulina tablets, and blanched vegetables such as zucchini, cucumber, and spinach 3-4 times weekly. Supplement with occasional protein sources like bloodworms or brine shrimp once weekly. Provide driftwood for natural grazing and digestion.

Behavior

These plecos are nocturnal and spend most of the day hiding in caves, driftwood, or dense vegetation, becoming more active at dusk and night. They are solitary and territorial with other plecos but peaceful toward other fish species. They produce audible clicking or squeaking sounds when stressed or communicating.

Breeding

Breeding in captivity is moderately difficult and requires specific conditions including caves or PVC pipes for spawning, slightly acidic water (pH 6.0-6.5), and temperatures around 24-26°C. Males guard eggs and fry aggressively; remove the female after spawning to prevent conflict. Fry are difficult to raise and require specialized foods like infusoria and micro pellets.

Tank mates

See all 6

Neon Tetra

Small, peaceful schooling fish that occupy upper water column and do not compete for bottom space

excellent

Otocinclus

Similar algae-eating habits but smaller; may compete for food, so ensure adequate algae and supplemental feeding

good

Dwarf Gourami

Peaceful mid-water dweller that does not interfere with bottom-dwelling plecos

excellent

Corydoras Sterbai

Peaceful bottom dweller; may compete for food, so provide multiple feeding areas

good

Harlequin Rasbora

Small, peaceful schooling fish that occupy middle water column and are non-aggressive

excellent

Fits a 20-gallon tank Beginner-friendly Peaceful

No state or federal restrictions on record.

Not legal advice, and possibly incomplete or out of date. Rules vary by state and change over time; check with your state wildlife or agriculture agency before buying, keeping or shipping it.

The care information here is written with AI help, so it can contain mistakes. Spot one? Tell us and we'll fix it.