LDA053 Bristlenose Catfish - (Ancistrus pirareta)

🐟 LDA053 Bristlenose Catfish – (Ancistrus pirareta) – Rare South American Pleco for Sale

The LDA053 Bristlenose Catfish (Ancistrus pirareta) is a rare and attractive freshwater pleco from South America, valued for its bristle-covered snout, peaceful temperament, and excellent algae-eating abilities. Perfect for community tanks and planted aquariums, this hardy species is both a functional cleaner and an eye-catching addition to any setup.

🔎 Quick Facts – LDA053 Bristlenose Catfish

• 📛 Common Name: Bristlenose Catfish
• 🔬 Scientific Name: Ancistrus pirareta
• 🌍 Origin: South America
• 🎨 Appearance: Dark, mottled body with prominent bristles on the head (more pronounced in males)
• 📏 Max Size: 4–5 inches (10–12 cm)
• 💎 Availability: Rare South American pleco for sale

😇 Behavior & Temperament

• 🤝 Peaceful, ideal for community tanks
• 🌿 Excellent algae grazer and tank cleaner
• 🪶 Bottom-dwelling and non-aggressive

🏠 Tank Requirements – Bristlenose Catfish Care

• 📦 Minimum Tank Size: 20+ gallons
• 🪵 Provide caves, driftwood, and hiding spots
• 🪨 Smooth rocks for grazing surfaces
• 🌊 Gentle to moderate water flow
• 💡 Low to moderate lighting to encourage algae growth

💧 Water Parameters

• 🌡️ Temperature: 72–80°F (22–27°C)
• ⚗️ pH: 6.5–7.5
• 💧 Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard

🍽️ Diet (Primarily Herbivorous)

• 🌿 Algae, biofilm, and sinking algae wafers
• 🥒 Blanched vegetables (zucchini, cucumber, spinach)
• 🍤 Occasional protein: bloodworms, brine shrimp

🔍 Sexing

• 👨 Males: Larger bristles extending from the snout
• 👩 Females: Smaller or no bristles, rounder body shape

📋 Overview Table – LDA053 Bristlenose Catfish Care

✨ Highlight:
The LDA053 Bristlenose Catfish is a compact, hardy pleco that’s perfect for aquarists seeking a low-maintenance algae eater with a distinctive bristled look. Ideal for small to mid-sized aquariums and safe with most peaceful tankmates.