Care guide
Caring for bristlenose plecos
- Adult size
- About 12 cm
- Water temperature
- 22–27 °C
- pH
- 6.5–7.5
- Smallest tank
- 75 litres
- Temperament
- Peaceful
- Care level
- Easy
Bristlenose plecos are small, peaceful catfish that graze on algae and stay a manageable size, around 10 to 13 cm. They need wood to rasp and more than algae to eat.
Tank
A tank of at least 75 litres (20 US gallons) with hiding places such as caves and driftwood, about 23 to 27 °C. They produce a lot of waste, so good filtration and weekly water changes matter.
Food
Algae alone isn't enough. Feed sinking algae wafers and blanched vegetables such as zucchini or cucumber, with some protein foods. Driftwood gives them fibre they rasp from it.
Company
Peaceful with most community fish. Males can squabble over caves, so give each one its own.
Further reading
General information to help you prepare, not veterinary advice. Every animal is different: ask an experienced vet about yours. Reviewed by PerfectPal on October 14, 2026.