Long Fin Super Red Bristlenose Pleco Ancistrus 1-2"

Super Red Longfin Bristlenose Pleco

Bristlenose Plecos belong to the genus Ancistrus. Males will develop long and elaborate tentacles on their faces, though females may develop bristles as well. They come in a variety of colour forms, with Super Red being particulalry popular amongst fishkeepers. They are mostly non-aggressive, though they may fight for dominance over a specific cave with other Plecos.

Bristlonose plecos will thrive in an environment with lots of smooth surfaces to graze algae, and absolutely love driftwood. A planted driftwood habitat is highly recommended.

How big do Super Red Plecs get?
Super Red Bristlenose Ancistrus do not grow as large as many other plec species. Unlike the Common Pleco (Hypostomus plecostomus) which easily exceed 20 inches (50cm) the Super Red Bristlenose Pleco grows to a size of only 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm).

Features
Approx. supplied size: 1-2" / 3-5cm
Maximum size: 6" / 15cm
Origin: South America, captive bred
Family: Ancistrus
Temperament: Peaceful
Lighting requirement: Low
Ideal number kept together: 1+

Water conditions
Our conditions: pH 7.5, temp 25°C
Ideal pH: 6.0–8.0
Water flow: low to moderate
Ideal temperature: 20-28°C

Ease of care
Easy. Longfin ancistrus have extended fins that may curl as they grow. The fins can get stuck in wood as they swim, leading to temporary rips in the fin, and can make them prone to fin-nippers although this is rare. 

Compatibility
Plecos are compatible with virtually all non-predatory and community fish. Care must be taken with fish and shrimp fry, as larger specimens will often mistake them for food or accidentally graze on them.

Diet
Feed a herbivorous diet which includes algae wafers and organic greens, like spinach.

Breeding
Males are often defined by large bushynose bristles at the nose. Pairs will breed quite readily in captive aquaria. The addition of tannins to the aquarium, such as Alder Cones or Catappa Leaves, have been known to stimulate breeding.

Life Span
Super Red Bristlenose Plecos can live up to 10 years in perfect conditions.

For more information on general fishkeeping and our shipping procedures click here.