Bushynose Pleco
From Microcosm Aquarium Explorer
This bewhiskered member of the plecostomus clan is always a conversation starter. Aaron Norman
Overview
Bushynose Plecos are definite eyecatchers in the aquarium and are showy members of the family Loricariidae, armored catfishes with mouths adapted for sucking algae loose from leaves and other substrates. Males have big bushes on their noses, while females have only a few small growths around the rims of their heads.
There are many species and color variations, with a considerable number of still-undescribed species waiting to be recognized and named.
Family: Loricariidae
Other common name(s):
- Starlight Bristlenose Catfish
- Bushynose or Bushymouth Catfish
Native range:
- Amazon River Basin
- Negro River Basin
- Lower Trombetas River Basin
- Tefé River Basin
- Madeira River Basin
- Tapajós River Basin
- South America
Habitat: Will not generally bother plants in the aquarium. Provide a tank with a fine-grade or rounded gravel substrate for the fish to root in, as well as driftwood and smooth stones for hiding and grazing.
Maximum length: 10 cm (4 in)
Minimum aquarium size: 114 L (30 gal)
Water: Freshwater 22 °C (72 °F) - 26 °C (79 °F)
General swimming level: Bottom.
Feeding
Omnivore. These are prodigious algae eaters in the wild but also eat small invertebrates. Will accept a variety of commercial fare designed for catfishes, including flakes and sinking algae wafers, as well as vegetable matter.
Aquarium Compatibility
The Bushynose Pleco is a peaceful species that can be included in a community setting with a variety of peaceful midwater and top swimmers.
Breeding/Propagation
Deposits large clusters of eggs in crevices or hollows of roots. Males guard and fan eggs. Easily raised fry hatch in around five days with attached yolk sac and stay in male’s care.
Notes
Strong filtration and frequent partial water changes are a must, as this species produces lots of waste.