The Super Red Longfin Bristlenose Pleco (Ancistrus sp.) is a captivating and highly sought-after pleco variant known for its vivid red coloration and graceful, extended fins. This unique combination of color and fin length sets it apart, making it a striking addition to any aquarium.
Description
- Coloration: The Super Red Longfin Bristlenose Pleco boasts a bright, intense red-orange body that is uniform in color. The long, flowing fins amplify its vibrant appearance, creating a captivating contrast against darker substrates and plants in the aquarium.
- Size: This species typically grows to about 4-5 inches (10-12.5 cm), making it suitable for medium-sized tanks and allowing it to live comfortably in a variety of setups.
Habitat
- Natural Range: While Bristlenose Plecos are native to rivers in South America, this specific “Super Red” color variant has been selectively bred in captivity for its striking color. Bristlenose Plecos in the wild inhabit rivers and streams, often hiding among rocks, roots, and driftwood.
- Aquarium Conditions: The Super Red Longfin Bristlenose Pleco thrives in a well-aerated tank with moderate water flow, plenty of caves, driftwood, and plants. Ideal water conditions include a temperature range of 72-82°F (22-28°C) and a pH of 6.5-7.5, with soft to moderate hardness. Adding driftwood to the tank is essential, as it provides both hiding spaces and dietary fiber that benefits plecos.
Behavior
- Peaceful and Hardy: Super Red Longfin Bristlenose Plecos are peaceful fish that coexist well with most community fish species. They are solitary but can tolerate other plecos in larger tanks if they have enough territory.
- Nocturnal: These plecos are mostly active during the evening and nighttime hours. During the day, they like to hide in caves, behind plants, or under driftwood.
Feeding
- Diet: Primarily herbivorous, Super Red Longfin Bristlenose Plecos are excellent algae eaters. They will also enjoy a varied diet with high-quality algae wafers, blanched vegetables (such as zucchini, cucumber, and spinach), and occasionally sinking pellets or protein sources like bloodworms or brine shrimp. Driftwood is a beneficial addition to their diet, as they graze on the biofilm and fibers it provides.
Breeding
- Cave Spawners: The Super Red Longfin Bristlenose Pleco is a cave spawner. The male attracts the female to a cave, where she lays her eggs. The male then fertilizes the eggs and guards them, fanning them with his fins until they hatch, which typically takes about 4-10 days.
- Breeding Setup: For breeding, provide multiple small caves or pipes, as these fish prefer enclosed spaces for spawning. A stable, clean tank environment with a slightly higher temperature within their preferred range can help encourage breeding.
Care Tips
- Tank Size: A minimum tank size of 20 gallons is recommended to allow enough space for grazing and movement.
- Hiding Spots: Offer plenty of driftwood, rocks, and plants for security and natural grazing areas.
- Water Quality: Regular water changes are essential, as the pleco’s algae-grazing can generate bio-waste. Good filtration and consistent maintenance will help keep the tank clean.
The Super Red Longfin Bristlenose Pleco is an excellent choice for aquarists looking for a peaceful, visually stunning pleco that also aids in algae control. Its manageable size, beautiful red coloration, and flowing fins make it a standout in community tanks, bringing both functional and aesthetic value to the aquarium.
