Bristle Nose Catfish | Ancistrus sp.
Choose the aquarium for the adult animal and its companions. A mature filter and stable, species-appropriate water conditions are essential.
At a Glance
| Origin & natural habitat |
South America |
| Adult size |
10–15cm |
| Lifespan |
8–12 years |
| Temperament |
Peaceful |
| Activity |
Use a consistent light/dark cycle with sheltered resting places. |
| Social needs |
Choose companions sharing its adult size, water conditions and behaviour. |
Housing & Setup
Enclosure dimensions are length × depth × height unless stated otherwise. Plan for the adult animal; larger, suitably furnished housing is encouraged.
| Adult housing |
75 litres |
| Enclosure type |
Mature freshwater aquarium, unless a different water type is specified below. |
| Temperature |
Confirm the species-specific temperature before purchase. |
| Water chemistry |
; |
| Substrate |
Species-appropriate sand or smooth gravel; avoid sharp material around bottom-dwelling fish. |
| Furnishings & filtration |
Provide shelter, suitable plants or wood, open swimming space, mature filtration and oxygenation. Fit a secure lid. |
Behaviour & Compatibility
Peaceful Check every proposed companion with our aquatic team and allow extra territory for breeding fish.
Feeding & Nutrition
Herbivore / Omnivore Feeds on: Algae wafers Sinking catfish pellets Fresh vegetables such as courgette, cucumber and spinach Occasional frozen foods including bloodworms and brine shrimp Feed once daily, preferably in the evening, ensuring enough food reaches the bottom of the aquarium. Feed measured portions rather than allowing food to accumulate; juveniles may need smaller, more frequent meals. Make sure bottom-dwelling or shy animals receive their share.
Routine Care
Check appetite, breathing, equipment and water temperature daily. Test water regularly; ammonia and nitrite must remain at zero. Make regular partial water changes using conditioned, temperature-matched water. Rinse biological filter media in removed tank water, preserving the filter bacteria.
Important Before Buying
Cycle the aquarium before collection. Confirm the current food and water conditions with our aquatic team and acclimatise gradually. Sale size is not adult size; stocking and filtration must account for the full-grown animal.
Live Animals Are Click & Collect Only
We do not ship live animals. Order online and wait for confirmation that your animal is ready before collecting from Newlands Home and Garden Centre, Clondalkin, Dublin 22. Have the enclosure prepared and its conditions checked before collection.
