Blue Eye Long Fin Bristlenose Pleco

They are about 1.5” in size 

🧬 Overview

• Common name: Long Fin Bristlenose Pleco

• Scientific name: Ancistrus sp.

• Family: Loricariidae (Armored Catfish)

• Origin: South America (Amazon Basin)

• Size: 4–6 inches (10–15 cm)

• Lifespan: 5–10 years

🌡️ Tank Requirements

• Tank size: 20+ gallons (larger for multiple plecos)

• Temperature: 73–81°F (23–27°C)

• pH: 6.5–7.5

• Water hardness: 2–12 dGH

• Filtration: Moderate to strong, with good oxygenation

• Substrate: Smooth gravel or sand

• Décor: Driftwood (they graze on it), caves, plants, hiding spots

🍃 Diet

• Type: Primarily herbivore (algae eater)

• Foods:

  • Algae wafers

  • Blanched vegetables (zucchini, cucumber, spinach)

  • Occasional protein (bloodworms, shrimp pellets)

• Tip: Provide driftwood—helps digestion and mimics their natural diet.

🧠 Behavior & Tankmates

• Temperament: Peaceful, shy

• Best kept with: Other peaceful community fish (tetras, guppies, rasboras, etc.)

• Avoid: Aggressive or large predatory fish

• Activity: Mostly nocturnal; active at night or low light

🐣 Breeding

• Setup: Caves or tubes for males to guard eggs

• Behavior: Male guards eggs and fans them until hatching (4–10 days)

• Fry care: Feed with algae wafers, blanched veggies, and spirulina powder

⚠️ Tips

• Keep water clean—sensitive to poor quality.

• Provide plenty of hiding spots to reduce stress.

• Avoid overstocking—territorial with other bottom dwellers.