Blue eye Lemon Bristlenose pleco

Blue eye Lemon Bristlenose Pleco

Ancistrus sp.

Origin and Habitat

• Native Region: Line-bred aquarium strain from South American Ancistrus stock.
• Natural Habitat: Wild Ancistrus live around covered freshwater margins, wood, rocks, and surfaces rich in biofilm and algae.

Physical Characteristics

• Size: Up to about 6 inches.
• Coloration: Snow white to pale body color; young fish can already show a strong white look, with males developing bristles as they mature.
• Body Shape: Compact armored pleco body with a broad head, sucker mouth, and flattened bottom-dwelling profile.

Behavior and Temperament

• Temperament: Peaceful, though males may guard caves.
• Social Behavior: Best kept with peaceful fish that will not pick on them or swallow small juveniles.

Aquarium Care

• Tank Size: A 20 gallon aquarium or larger is recommended for a single adult.
• Water Parameters: 74-84°F, pH 6.5-8.2; stable, well-filtered freshwater.
• Tank Setup: Provide caves, driftwood, shaded cover, grazing surfaces, and gentle-to-moderate flow.

Diet and Feeding

• Primary Staple: Feed a plant-forward sinking diet such as Ron’s Veggie Wafers.
• Grazing: Allow regular grazing on biofilm and algae-covered surfaces, especially for juveniles.

Breeding

• Breeding Type: Cave spawner.
• Breeding Notes: Males guard eggs inside caves. Fry and small juveniles need safe cover and steady access to grazing foods.

Tank Mates

• Compatible With: Peaceful community fish, especially smaller tank mates while young.
• Avoid: Fish large enough to eat them, aggressive fish that pick at them, and crowded tanks without cover.