The Blue Eye Longfin Bristlenose Pleco is a beautiful and unique variant of the Bristlenose Pleco (Ancistrus sp.), prized for its striking blue eyes and flowing long fins. This pleco combines the easy-care attributes of standard Bristlenose Plecos with an added touch of elegance, making it a standout choice for aquarium enthusiasts.
Description
- Coloration: The Blue Eye Longfin Bristlenose Pleco has a dark brown to black body with distinctive blue eyes that are especially vibrant in contrast to its body color. The long, flowing fins add a dramatic appearance, giving it an elegant look as it moves gracefully around the tank.
- Size: It is a relatively small pleco species, reaching about 4-5 inches (10-12.5 cm) in length, which makes it suitable for medium-sized tanks.
Habitat
- Natural Range: While Bristlenose Plecos originate from South America, this specific variant is selectively bred in captivity. In the wild, Bristlenose Plecos inhabit rivers and streams with moderate to strong water flow, where they live among rocks, roots, and driftwood.
- Aquarium Conditions: In an aquarium, Blue Eye Longfin Bristlenose Plecos prefer a well-oxygenated environment with moderate flow and plenty of hiding spots. Ideal water parameters include a temperature of 72-82°F (22-28°C) and a pH between 6.5 and 7.5, with soft to moderate hardness.
Behavior
- Peaceful and Solitary: Like other Bristlenose Plecos, the Blue Eye Longfin variety is peaceful and generally stays to itself. It coexists well with a range of community fish and is less territorial than other pleco species, though it may show mild aggression if other plecos intrude on its space.
- Nocturnal: They are more active in the evening and at night, spending the day sheltering under plants, driftwood, or in caves.
Feeding
- Diet: These plecos are herbivores with a strong appetite for algae, making them excellent tank cleaners. Their diet should be supplemented with high-quality algae wafers, blanched vegetables (like zucchini, cucumber, and spinach), and occasional sinking pellets or protein-based treats like bloodworms.
Breeding
- Cave Spawners: The Blue Eye Longfin Bristlenose Pleco is a cave spawner, which means the male will prepare a cave or hollow where the female lays eggs. The male fertilizes and guards the eggs, fanning them with his fins until they hatch (usually in 4-10 days).
- Breeding Setup: To encourage breeding, provide dedicated spawning caves or hollow logs, and maintain a stable, clean tank environment with a slightly higher temperature within the species’ preferred range.
Care Tips
- Tank Size: A 20-gallon tank or larger is recommended to allow them space to roam and forage.
- Hiding Spots: Include plenty of driftwood, rocks, and plants to mimic their natural habitat and offer security.
- Regular Water Changes: Consistent water changes are essential to maintaining water quality and reducing waste buildup, especially in smaller tanks.
The Blue Eye Longfin Bristlenose Pleco is an excellent addition to community aquariums, offering both algae-cleaning benefits and unique visual appeal. Its manageable size, peaceful temperament, and beautiful blue eyes make it a favorite for aquarists of all experience levels.
