Super Red Bushy Nose Pleco
Ancistrus sp.
Super Red Bushy Nose Plecos are line-bred bristlenose plecos selected for warm orange-red color. They stay far smaller than common plecos, graze actively, and make a bright, practical bottom-dwelling addition to community aquariums.
Coloration on the ones available will vary. At these sizes, they are mainly orange, as they get bigger and mature, and depending on the lighting they can get more red.
Origin and Habitat
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Native Region: Line-bred aquarium strain from South American Ancistrus stock.
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Natural Habitat: Wild Ancistrus use freshwater habitats with wood, rock, covered banks, biofilm, algae, and detritus.
Physical Characteristics
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Size: Usually 4-5 inches.
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Coloration: Orange to red-orange body color; mature males usually develop more pronounced head bristles.
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Body Shape: Compact armored catfish body with a broad head, sucker mouth, and short pleco profile.
Behavior and Temperament
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Temperament: Peaceful, though mature males can be territorial around caves.
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Social Behavior: Fine singly or in a small group with enough hiding places and feeding stations.
Aquarium Care
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Tank Size: A 20 gallon aquarium or larger is recommended for a single adult.
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Water Parameters: 72-82°F, pH 6.5-8.0; stable, well-filtered freshwater.
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Tank Setup: Provide caves, wood, shaded retreats, biofilm surfaces, and steady filtration.
Diet and Feeding
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Primary Staple: Feed a plant-forward sinking diet such as Ron’s Veggie Wafers.
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Grazing: Allow regular grazing on biofilm and algae-covered surfaces, especially for juveniles.
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Feeding Frequency: Feed small evening portions and remove uneaten vegetables or wafers before they foul the water.
Breeding
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Breeding Type: Cave spawner.
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Breeding Notes: Males guard clutches in caves until fry hatch and begin grazing on biofilm and soft foods.
Tank Mates
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Compatible With: Peaceful community fish and calm cichlids that will not harass bottom-dwellers.
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Avoid: Large predators, aggressive bottom fish, and tanks without caves or grazing surfaces.
