PisciDex Species Profile
Bristlenose Pleco
Manageable algae-grazing pleco that stays smaller than common plecos but still adds meaningful waste load.
Ancistrus cirrhosus
Loricariidae | South America | Amazon basin
Core Requirements
Tank Size
20 gallons minimum
Adult Size
5 inches
Group Size
Solo
Bioload
5/10
Water Parameters
Temperature
73-80 F
pH
6.5-7.8
Plant Safe
Yes
Invert Safe
Yes
Data Confidence
medium
Temperature note: Recommended and tolerated temperature ranges currently match the primary care profile.
Behavior & Husbandry
Temperament
Peaceful
Aggression
2/10
Diet
Herbivore
Difficulty
Easy
Lifespan
8 years
Breeding
Easy
Schooling
No
Compatibility Tags
CommunityPeacefulBottom DwellerPlant SafeInvert SafeBeginner FriendlyRockwork Preferred
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Species Compatibility
Database-driven compatibility notes for planning community aquariums.