Longfin Calico Bristlenose Pleco

Ancistrus sp.

Also known as longfin calico bristlenose, calico bristlenose, longfin bristlenose

Animalia›Chordata›Actinopterygii›Siluriformes›Loricariidae

A long-finned calico (marbled orange/black/white) morph of the common bristlenose pleco. The bristlenose pleco is the most commonly kept plecostomus in the hobby thanks to its manageable adult size. Males develop characteristic bushy tentacles on the snout used in mate selection. An excellent algae grazer, it should also receive supplemental feeding with blanched vegetables and sinking wafers.

At a glance

Size: 5 in; 13 cm
Min tank: 20 gal; 76 L
Temp: 73–81°F; 23–27°C
pH: 6.5–7.5
GH: 54–447 ppm; 3–25 dGH
Temperament: Peaceful
Swims: Bottom
Lifespan: 10–15 yrs

Ammonia 0 ppm and nitrate under 20 ppm.

Care

Diet

Bristlenose plecos are primarily herbivorous and will graze on algae naturally present in the tank, but supplemental feeding is essential. Offer blanched vegetables (zucchini, cucumber, spinach) 2-3 times weekly and high-quality sinking algae wafers or pellets daily. Occasional protein supplements like bloodworms can be provided but should not be the primary diet.

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Legality

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Not legal advice, and possibly incomplete or out of date.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.

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