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.
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.
