Peppermint Bristlenose - Adult (No Online Purchases)

The Peppermint Bristlenose Pleco, often referred to by its L-number L183, is a stunning and relatively peaceful pleco that would make a beautiful addition to your aquarium.

Appearance:

• They have a striking black body covered in numerous small, bright white spots, resembling a starry night sky.  
• As juveniles, the spots are more prominent.
• They possess the typical bristlenose pleco features, with bushy appendages (odontodes) developing on the snout of mature males.
• They typically grow to a size of 10-15 cm (4-6 inches).

Tank Requirements:

• A minimum tank size of 75 liters (20 gallons) is recommended for a single adult.
• Substrate: Sand or fine, smooth gravel is best to protect their bellies.  
• Decorations: Provide plenty of hiding places such as caves, driftwood, and rock structures. Driftwood is essential as they rasp on it, aiding digestion. Live plants like Anubias and Java fern are also suitable.  
• Water Flow: They prefer well-oxygenated water with a moderate current.  

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 22-28°C (72-82°F). A reliable heater is necessary during cooler months.
• pH: 6.0-7.5.
• Hardness: Soft to moderate (50-100 ppm or 3-6 dGH).  
• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm.  
• Nitrate: Below 20 ppm through regular water changes.

Temperament and Tank Mates:

• Peppermint Bristlenose Plecos are generallypeaceful community dwellers.  
• They can be kept with other peaceful fish of similar size and temperament, such as:
  • Tetras  
  • Gouramis
  • Corydoras  
  • Angelfish  
  • Rasboras  
• Avoid housing them with large, aggressive fish that may try to eat them or fin-nipping species that could damage their bristles. While some have kept them with semi-aggressive cichlids, caution is advised.  

Diet:

• They areomnivores with a diet that should include both vegetable matter and some protein.  
• Staple foods: High-quality algae wafers and sinking pellets.  
• Vegetables: Supplement their diet with blanched zucchini, cucumber, and spinach.  
• Occasional treats: Live or frozen bloodworms and brine shrimp can be offered sparingly.  
• Driftwood is important for their digestion.  

Breeding:

• Breeding Peppermint Bristlenose Plecos in the home aquarium is possible.  
• Provide caves for spawning.
• Males will guard the eggs until they hatch.  
• Stable water conditions and a varied, nutritious diet are important for successful breeding.