Super Red Bushynose Pleco (1.75-2”)

Overview

• Scientific Name: Ancistrus sp. “Super Red”

• A selectively bred variant of the common bristlenose pleco, known for its bright orange to red coloration.

Natural Environment

• Native forms of Ancistrus are found in shallow, well-oxygenated streams and tributaries in the Amazon and Orinoco basins of South America.

• Their habitat typically has sandy or rocky bottoms, submerged wood and roots, and moderate water flow.

• In the wild, they graze on algae, biofilm, and small invertebrates.

Size & Lifespan

• Maximum Size: Around 4.5–6 inches (10–15 cm).

• Lifespan: Typically 5–10 years, with some individuals living longer in excellent conditions.

Recommended Aquarium Size, Water Conditions & Care

• Tank Size: At least 20 gallons for an adult. 30+ gallons is recommended for pair/community setup 

• Water Temperature: 72–80 °F (22–27 °C).

• pH: 6.0–7.5, though they can adapt within 5.5–8.0.

• Water Changes: Weekly changes of 20–30% to maintain good water quality.

• Habitat Needs: Provide soft substrate such as sand or smooth gravel to protect their mouths, plenty of caves and hiding places, driftwood for grazing and shelter, and live or artificial plants for cover. Moderate water flow and oxygenation are preferred.

Tankmates & Behavior

• Temperament: Peaceful, nocturnal bottom dwellers. Active mostly at night.

• Good Tankmates: Small, calm community fish such as tetras, rasboras, guppies, Corydoras, dwarf gouramis, and peaceful livebearers. Larger sized bushynose can go with medium sized Central/South American and African Cichlids with caution*

• Avoid: Large, aggressive fish that may bully or outcompete them for food.

• Notes: Males can be territorial toward each other, especially around caves. Multiple hiding spots help reduce aggression.

Diet

• Primary Foods: Algae wafers, sinking pleco pellets, and natural biofilm.

• Vegetables: Blanched zucchini, cucumber, spinach, peas, and green beans are excellent staples.

• Protein Treats: Offer sparingly—such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, or daphnia—to avoid digestive issues.

• Feeding Frequency: 1–2 times per day, removing uneaten food to keep the water clean.

Breeding

• Method: Cave spawners. The male lures a female into a cave, where eggs are deposited. He then guards and fans the eggs until they hatch.

• Conditions: Slightly cooler water changes and tight spawning caves help trigger breeding.

• Parental Care: Males guard the eggs (3–7 days incubation) and often protect fry until they are free-swimming.

• Fry Care: Fry initially feed on their yolk sacs, then on soft vegetables, biofilm, and driftwood surfaces.

• Tip: Providing at least two caves per male increases success and reduces territorial fights.