Albino Bristlenose Pleco

Albino bristlenose pleco belonging to the Loricariidae family is a small-sized freshwater fish. Indigenous to parts of South America, this species has a hardy, pleasant demeanor for a great aquarium fish.

Quick Information

Scientific Name	Ancistrus dolichopterus
Other Names	Bushymouth pleco, Albino bushynose, bushynose pleco,
Origin	Middle Amazon Basin, Rio Negro basin, as well as the Tapajos, Tefe, Madeira, and Trombetas rivers
Type	Freshwater fish
Conservation Status	Least Concern (by the IUCN)
Behavioral Characteristics	Peaceful, and hardy, but may get aggressive with other males of their species
School Size	2 – 3
Physical Traits	Small, flat body; round mouth; elongated lips; tentacle-like appendages on their head upon maturity; pair of pectoral and abdominal fins
Colors	Brown, gray or olive body with white or light-yellow spots; pinkish-red eyes;
Size (How big do they get)	Small; 4 – 5 inches (10 – 13 cm)
Growth Rate	They grow at a moderate pace, reaching their full size by the time they are 2
Lifespan (How long do they live)	5 years
Sexual Dimorphism	Males: Big in size with whiskers and larger bristles on their head, alongside spikes on fins; Females: Smaller with bristles on their snout without whiskers and spikes on the fins
Probable Diseases	Ich
Approximate Price (How much is it for)	$ 4 – 6

Tank Setup & Care Sheet Details

Care Level	Beginner
Tank Size	30 gallons (113.5 liters)

Water Parameters

pH Level	6.5 – 7.5
Temperature	73 – 85 °F (23 – 27°C)
Hardness	10 – 30 dGH
Aquarium  Water Flow	Moderate

Tank Ambience

Lighting	Moderate
Substrate Type	Rocks,  and pebbles, as well as driftwood, caves, and overhangs for hiding
Tank Mates	Compatible with:  Neon tetra, platy, guppies, bettas, and certain cichlid species like the African cichlid; invertebrates like shrimps Incompatible with: Highly aggressive and territorial fish
Suitable Position in the Tank	Bottom

Feeding

Diet	Live or fresh, meaty food like brine shrimp, bloodworms; algae wafers; pellets; vegetable flakes, and fresh vegetables like zucchini, shelled peas, and cucumber
Frequency	2 – 3 times a day

Important Things to Know for Fish Keepers

• Owners have mentioned of their albino plecos developing red spots, which could be an effect of the food they consume or even a change in the water condition. Consider adding algae wafers to their diet if you have not yet and also do a partial water change on a routine basis. In case the problem persists, and you spot other symptoms too, then consult a fish vet.

FAQs