Description
Britlenose Catfish are incredibly unique and fun creatures that are quite popular in freshwater tanks. These little critters are very easy to care for and can help improve the quality of the tank - useful algae eater.
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Features of Bristlenose Catfish:
- The bushy nose appendages that sprout from their snouts
- Bristlenose Plecos have a mouth that’s located on the bottom of their bodies
- Compared to other Plecos, the fish have somewhat elongated lips.
The Best Aquarium Size for Bristlenose Catfish:
Bristlenose Catfish do well in a tank of 50L or larger and can handle a wide range of water conditions. Tank size can vary greatly depending on how big or small the fish is and how many you plan to stock in the tank.
After an Aquarium for your fish? Browse Aquarium Tank Selection here.
Tank Mate Compatibility:
Bristlenose Catfish are very peaceful community dwellers. They can be kept together with other algae eaters, like snails or grazing fish.
Tank mates include:
Diet:
Bristlenose Plecos are omnivores eating mainly algae, so feeding algae or spirulina wafers once or twice daily is best. Granules, flakes, or bloodworms are also good, while the occasional zucchini slices and blanched romaine lettuce or spinach are good treats.
Check out our extensive range of aquarium fish foods.
Bristlenose Catfish Tank Setup:
Aquarium Filtration
Bristlenose Catfish come from fast-flowing waters. They also consume a lot of food and, in turn produce more waste than other fish. Ensure your filter has an adequate flow rate for your aquarium size to effective remove waste and debris.
Shop our comprehensive range of aquarium filters here.
Plants for Bristlenose Catfish
There are no strict cultivars that these fish prefer and they typically do not eat aquarium plants unless plants are deteriorating. You will often find them perched on leaves gently feeding on the algae. They enjoy shaded areas and places to hide, this makes them feel safe.
Interested in live plants for your aquariums? Browse live plants here.
Decorations for Bristlenose Catfish
Driftwood is excellent for algae growth and organic material that bristlenose catfish love to eat. We consider driftwood essential in the aquarium for bristlenose catfish. Other decorations include caves and ornaments the fish can swim and hide in.
After more nice quality decorations? Check our Aquarium Ornaments.
Aquarium Lighting
These fish enjoy lower light levels with lots of shade and dark spaces to hide. If keeping live plants, they will need sufficient light to grow.
Standard aquarium lighting is appropriate. Shop aquarium lighting here.
Aquarium Substrate
Aquarium sand is ideal for plecos as they are bottom dwellers and will forage through substrate for food. If you prefer to use gravel, use a smooth and rounded gravel to protect their bodies.
A variety of Substrates are available at Coburg Aquarium.
