Josh's Frogs Small Albino Bristlenose Pleco - Ancistrus sp (Tank Raised) Live Fish

Name: Ancistrus sp. Albino Bristlenose Pleco. The exact species of the commonly bred and traded bristlenose in the hobby is unknown, but they are a type of plecostomus fish in the family Loricariidae. The genus Ancistrus stems from a greek word meaning “hook” and refers to the shape of the cheek odontodes found across the various species. The common name “Bristlenose” or “Bushynose” is a nod to the fleshy tentacle-like structures on the snout of mature males. Recommended Enclosure Size: Minimum aquarium size for one bristlenose pleco is 10 gallons. For a pair or a group, the minimum is 20 gallons. It is recommended to provide driftwood for them to browse on and seek shelter amongst, as well as a few caves which will be utilized for security and potential spawning sites when mature. Temperature: The preferred temperature range for bristlenose plecos is 72-80 degrees fahrenheit. pH/Hardness: The common bristlenose pleco is a hardy, aquarium-raised animal. They can adapt to almost any pH, from 6.0-8.0, although extremely hard water (pH 8.0+) is best avoided. Size: At the time of sale, Albino Bristlenose Plecos will be at least 3/4" when they ship. When fully grown, they will reach approximately 5.” Age: Your new albino bristlenose pleco will be at least 3-4 months old when you buy them. Bristlenose plecos can live for many years in captivity, some have even been known to reach 20-30 years of age! The typical lifespan is 10-15 years. Feeding: Like most plecos, bristlenose plecos will feed primarily on algae or vegetable based foods. This should form the bulk of their diet. Things like algae wafers, repashy soilent green or bottom scratcher and blanched zucchini will be relished by these plecos. They can occasionally eat more protein rich foods such as shrimp pellets or frozen fare like bloodworms. All food should be sinking, as they are bottom feeders. Sexing: As juveniles, bristlenose plecos will all look the same, but once they reach about 2-3 inches in size, the males will start to grow their “tentacles” or bristles on their snout. Females may have a few small bristles, but they will never be as impressive as the male’s adornment. Mature females are also a little wider in the abdomen than males, who tend to taper off past the pectoral fins. Due to their age, Albino Bristlenose Plecos sold by Josh’s Frogs are sold as unsexed animals. Color/Pattern: Albino bristlenose plecos are a golden/pink color with red eyes. They have the faintest white spots visible on the body and fins, which is more noticeable in non-albino animals. Social Behavior: Bristlenose plecos are not particularly social and can be housed as lone specimens in a community tank as the designated “algae eater.” If you end up with a pair, they will get along just fine and may even spawn. If you end up with multiple males, they may squabble and will likely require a larger aquarium to peacefully coexist.

Bottom feeder/algae eater Peaceful community fish Stays small for a pleco (ships at 3/4"+)