Species profile
Longfin Bristlenose Pleco
Ancistrus sp. longfin
Peaceful
Easy care
100 L minimum aquarium
8–12 cm adult size
Bottom
Can be kept singly
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Selective-bred longfin variety. Similar bioload and care to standard bristlenose.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
23–27 °C
pH
5.5–8
GH
Up to 20 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Moderate–high
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Can be kept singly
Tank zone
Bottom
Territory level
Low
Predation risk
None
Bioload factor
1.8
Peaceful bottom-dwelling loricariid, although mature males can defend caves from other bristlenoses. Long fins require décor and intakes that will not snag or tear them.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Yes
Shrimp safe
Yes
Snail safe
Yes
Cave breeder
Yes
Digs substrate
No
Jump risk
Low
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
Not yet documented
Diet type
Herbivore
Minimum aquarium volume
100 L
Minimum footprint
80 × 35 cm
Alternative names
Longfin Bristlenose Pleco, Longfin Ancistrus, Ancistrus sp. longfin
Native range
Domestic long-fin aquarium line of unresolved Ancistrus species provenance; no precise wild range can be assigned.
Natural habitat
Provide mature grazing surfaces, wood, caves, efficient filtration and well-oxygenated moderate current.
Diet & feeding
Plant/algae-focused grazer. Supplement algae wafers and vegetables with wood and occasional protein-rich foods; avoid a permanently high-protein diet.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Mature males develop prominent head bristles; females have much smaller or absent snout bristles.
Breeding
Cave spawner. Male occupies and guards a cave, tends the eggs and protects the brood until fry become free-swimming.