Many similar species of Ancistrus enter the trade and are sold as Bristlenose Catfish. The most commonly seen are usually captive-bred and near impossible to correctly identify without the originality location. Ancistrus sp. are great algae eaters, and growing to a maximum 12cm in length, offer a welcome alternative to the common Pleco which attains a monstrous size and is unsuitable for all but the largest of aquariums. Bristlenose catfish prefer a strong water current with plenty of oxygenation. Numerous hiding places should be provided, and should include a good amount of bogwood in order for the fish to graze and extract lignin from it – an essential part of their diet. Plants may be safely kept with Bristlenose Catfish, and most small-medium community type fish kept harmoniously alongside them. If keeping more than one specimen (or if keeping with other Loricarids), the occasional minor scuffle for territory may occur, but no serious damage will arise if the fish are given enough space. Bristlenose Catfish must only be added to mature aquariums. Albino, mottled, orange, snow white and long-finned varieties are available. Some of these blue/dark-eyed pale forms are sometimes referred to as L144 but it seems that the few fishes identified under that code have now been extensively crossed into the domestic lines of Ancistrus cf. cirrhosus.

Acclimating fish:

• If received after 24-48 hours, slow drip acclimating fish to quarantine tank.
• If received after 2+ days, equalize water temp by floating bag. Try not to pour bag water into aquarium, drain over net externally and drop fish into quarantine tank.