Bristlenose Plecostomus - Ancistrus Cirrhosus : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
The Jumbie Teta Bristlenose Pleco (Ancistrus Cirrhosus) is a fascinating and peaceful addition to any aquarium. These hardy and adaptable Catfish are exceptional cleaners and can effortlessly acclimate to various water conditions. Not only are they friendly and peaceful, but they can also protect themselves from more aggressive fish due to their bony exoskeleton and sharp spines. While they generally get along with other fish, Bristlenose Plecos can become aggressive towards one another, especially when males are kept in a small aquarium. In fact, it's not uncommon to find males with their bristles tangled together!
With their small size, Bristlenose Plecos can be kept in an aquarium of 45 litres or more and prefer well-oxygenated water with a slow to moderate flow. They occasionally dart to the surface to swallow air, which can be a sign of low oxygen levels or the presence of ammonia or nitrite in the water. To ensure clean and highly oxygenated water, an under gravel filter system with a powerhead or airstones can be utilized. Smooth substrate, plants, rocks, large twisted roots, and driftwood can create hiding places for these nocturnal fish to retreat during the day. These decorations also make great shelters for their fry, especially if keeping a breeding pair.
Bristlenose Plecos typically exhibit a variegated colouration, encompassing shades of brown, black, olive, or grey, interspersed with white or yellow markings, with variations influenced by their geographical origin. Among the discernible variations, a 'piebald' variant is notable, characterized by substantial patches of lighter hue across the body. Noteworthy is the anatomical feature of a flat and comparatively lighter-coloured abdomen juxtaposed with the upper body. These Plecos grow tentacle-like growths from their head and bony plates and have a broad head with an underbite to the lower jaw set, which makes them excellent suckerfish.
Additionally, an albino colour morph, characterized by a predominantly white hue, is sporadically encountered within the species.
Bristlenose Plecostomus Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
Determining the gender of Jumbie Teta Bristlenose Plecos can be achieved with ease. Both males and females have fleshy tentacles; however, males can be identified by their larger size, longer bristles, and whiskers. Moreover, the location of the bristles is different between the sexes. Males have bristles on their heads, while females have them on their snout. Males may also possess spikes on their fins.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Ancistrus Cirrhosus |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 1836 |
| Other Names | Bushynose Catfish, Jumbie Teta, Common Bristlenose Catfish, Brushmouth Pleco |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Siluriformes |
| Family | Loricariidae |
| Genus | Ancistrus |
| Origins | Panama , Suriname |
| Max Size | 12.5 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | Bottom |
| Difficulty | Beginner - Intermediate |
| Shoaling | No |
| Best kept as | Loners |
| Diet & Feeding | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Egg Depositor |
| Average Lifespan | Up to 5 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| pH | 6.0 - 8.0 |
| GH | 5 - 20 |
| TDS | 18 – 268 |
| ℉ | 73 - 81 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 22 - 27 |
Natural Habitat
The Jumbie Teta Bristlenose Plecos' native habitat is in South America! These fascinating fish are mainly found in the fast-flowing waters of Saramacca, Suriname, and Maroni in the Amazon River Basin. However, they can also be found in other parts of South and Central America, including Panama.
In their natural environment, Bristlenose Plecos thrive in the fast-flowing waters of the Amazon River basin, where they can find an abundance of food and shelter amongst the rocky riverbeds. These remarkable fish have unique physical features that make them stand out in their habitat, including their bristled snout, which is believed to help them scrape algae off rocks and other surfaces.
Breeding
Breeding Jumbie Teta Bristlenose Plecos is a straightforward process that can easily be achieved in a typical tank environment. However, adding driftwood or caves to the tank can encourage mating behaviour among the plecos. Once the males have matured, they will stake out a specific area for spawning. During mating season, females will lay their eggs in the male's territory.
To induce spawning, a 75% water change is recommended, as water transformations during the Amazon's rainy season can spur mating behaviours in the wild. Male plecos will fiercely guard their territory, often resulting in fights with other males that may cause their bristles to become tangled.
Once ready to breed, the female will attach her eggs to hard surfaces such as cave tops, driftwood, or other suitable tank decorations. For 5-10 days, the male will defend the spawning area until the eggs hatch. After hatching, the fry will absorb their egg yolk for a few days before moving on to algae as their primary food source.
Diet & Feeding
The Jumbie Teta Bristlenose Plecos are primarily herbivorous and rely on algae and other detritus as their main source of nutrition. Thus, a diet primarily composed of spirulina or algae wafers is optimal for their health and well-being. Supplementing their diet with high-quality flakes, granules, and bloodworms is an excellent way to provide balanced nutrition. Treating them to blanched vegetables occasionally can also be appreciated and beneficial for their diet. Overall, a varied and nutritious diet is key to ensuring the optimal health of Bristlenose Plecos.
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