Bristlenose Common Medium - (No Online Purchases)

Name: Common Bristlenose Catfish medium. - In store pick up only

Scientific Name: Ancistrus sp. — commonly sold as Ancistrus cf. cirrhosus.

Description: A peaceful, bottom-dwelling catfish with a dark brown to grey body covered in small, pale spots. Its sucker-shaped mouth allows it to graze on algae and biofilm. Mature males develop prominent, branching bristles around the snout, while females generally have fewer, smaller bristles.

Origin: Captive-bred aquarium strain derived from South American Ancistrus stock; its precise ancestry is uncertain.

pH: Approximately 6.5–7.5.

Temperature: Around 22–26°C.

Adult Size: Approximately 12–15 cm, with females generally slightly smaller.

Lifespan: Approximately 5–10 years with good care.

Food: Primarily herbivorous to omnivorous. Feed quality algae wafers or vegetable-based sinking pellets, supplemented with zucchini, pumpkin and leafy greens. Offer protein-rich foods sparingly. Natural aquarium algae alone will not provide a complete diet.

Compatibility: Excellent with most peaceful community fish, including tetras, rasboras, gouramis and Corydoras. Avoid large, aggressive tank mates. Mature males may defend caves against other bristlenose, so provide separate shelters and sufficient space when keeping multiple adults.

Habitat: Provide an established freshwater aquarium with driftwood, caves, shaded retreats and sand or smooth gravel. Include open feeding areas and maintain effective filtration, good oxygenation and regular water changes. Often more active around dusk and after lights-out.