Meet the Bushynoses
By Jules Portnoy
If you are searching for the perfect Pleco for your freshwater aquarium, you have come to the right place. Ancistrus cirrhosus, commonly known as the Bristlenose or Bushynose Plecos, are unique in appearance, great algae eaters, and come in a variety of color morphs. Unlike many other suckermouth catfish which can reach 12+ inches and outgrow your tank, adult Bushynose only reach about 5 inches. While both males and females have gill spikes, males can grow large fleshy bristles from their faces, a characteristic which truly sets this species apart. Their peaceful temperament makes them a wonderful addition to community tanks.
Bushynose Plecos thrive in established planted tanks with plenty of hiding spaces, driftwood, and good water flow. We recommend a minimum of 20 gallons for adults but juveniles can be great temporary additions to smaller tanks. While Bushynose Plecos will help control algae and clean the substrate in your aquarium, it is good practice to supplement their diet with algae wafers and sinking pellets. Blanched vegetables including cucumber, zucchini, and peas can be great as a treat to add variety to your Pleco’s diet. They are an extremely adaptable species, being able to comfortably live in a wide range of temperature (72 - 85°F) and pH (6.5 - 8.0), as long as transitions are made gradually.
Despite being generally solitary fish, they are prolific breeders and can do well in pairs in a large enough tank. Females will lay eggs in caves or on well-protected flat surfaces where the male will then fertilize and guard the eggs until they hatch. Newly hatched juveniles will typically remain in the cave or near the male for about a week until they have absorbed their yolk sac and are ready to start scavenging.
Here at Absolutely Fish we often have Bushynose varieties including Common, Albino, Snow White, Starlight, Super Red, Calico, and Longfin in-store. With so many benefits to these strange-looking fish, they will undoubtedly add a touch of charisma and functionality to your freshwater aquarium. If you have any questions about adding a Bushynose pleco to your tank, feel free to come into the store or call us at (973) 365-0200 where one of our trained Aquarists will be happy to assist you.