Super Red Bristlenose Pleco (Ancistrus sp. "Super Red"),

The Super Red Bristlenose Pleco (Ancistrus sp. “Super Red”) is an attractive and practical addition to many home aquariums. Here’s a summary of key points and care guidelines for this fish:

Key Features:

• Coloration: Juveniles have a yellowish hue, which deepens into a vivid red-orange as they mature.
• Size: Reaches 4 to 5.9 inches (10 to 15 cm), making it more manageable than larger plecos.
• Behavior: Generally peaceful and hardy, suitable for community tanks. Males may be territorial towards other males.
• Appearance: Both sexes develop bristle-like appendages on their faces, more prominently in males.

Tank Setup and Care:

• Tank Size: Minimum of 30 gallons.
• pH Range: 6.5 - 7.5, stable conditions are crucial.
• Temperature Range: 72° - 86° F (22° - 30° C).
• KH: 6 - 10 dKH.

Diet:

• Primary Diet: Rich in vegetable matter such as high-quality vegetable flakes, sinking algae wafers, and pellets.
• Supplementary Foods: Fresh vegetables like shelled peas, spinach, zucchini, and cucumber.
• Occasional Treats: Sparing amounts of meaty foods like bloodworms.

Behavior and Compatibility:

• Social Behavior: Solitary but can socialize during breeding. Compatible with most tankmates, although it may prey on small shrimp fry.
• Activity: Primarily nocturnal but can become active during the day in a well-established tank with plenty of hiding spots.

Benefits in the Aquarium:

• Algae Control: Effective at consuming algae, especially as juveniles.
• Scavenging: Will consume uneaten fish food, contributing to a cleaner tank.
• Plant Safety: Generally does not harm plants.

Breeding:

• Origin: Tank-bred, originally from South America.
• Breeding Environment: Males can be territorial, so providing ample hiding places is important to reduce conflicts.

Conclusion:

The Super Red Bristlenose Pleco is an excellent choice for aquarists looking for a visually appealing, manageable, and beneficial fish for their aquarium. Its small size, peaceful nature, and utility in algae control make it a practical addition to most freshwater setups. Regular feeding with a balanced diet and maintaining stable water conditions will ensure the health and longevity of this vibrant fish.

Sample Photo is for reference only. Exact fish will vary in size and colour*