Our Guide To Keeping Starlight Bristlenose Pleco

1. About Fish Species:

   • Scientific name: Ancistrus dolichopterus
   • Common name: Starlight Bristlenose Pleco
   • Family: Loricariidae
   • Origin: Amazon River Basin in South America
   • Adult length: 12 cm (male), 15 cm (female)
   • Lifespan: 5 to 10 years

2. Tank Setup:

   • Starlight Bristlenose Plecos require a tank with hiding places like caves, driftwood, and rocks.
   • Provide plenty of surfaces for algae growth as they feed on biofilm and algae.

3. Water Parameters:

   • Keep the water temperature between 24 to 30°C (75 to 86°F).
   • Maintain slightly acidic to neutral water with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5.
   • Water hardness should be between 5 to 15 dGH.

4. Filtration and Water Flow:

   • Efficient filtration is necessary to maintain water quality, as they are sensitive to poor water conditions.
   • Provide gentle to moderate water flow to mimic their natural habitat.

5. Diet:

   • Starlight Bristlenose Plecos are omnivores and primarily herbivorous.
   • Offer a varied diet including high-quality sinking algae wafers, blanched vegetables like zucchini and cucumber, and occasional protein-rich foods like bloodworms or brine shrimp.

6. Tank mates:

   • They are peaceful and can be kept with a variety of community fish including tetras, rasboras, peaceful barbs, and other small catfish species.
   • Avoid aggressive or territorial tank mates that may harass them.

7. Behavior and Compatibility:

   • Starlight Bristlenose Plecos are nocturnal and will be more active during the night.
   • They are peaceful and can coexist with other tank inhabitants.