All fish / Loricariidae

Mato Grosso Bristlenose Pleco

Ancistrus mattogrossensis

Also known as mato grosso bristlenose, mattogrossensis bristlenose, bristlenose pleco, ancistrus mattogrossensis, mato grosso ancistrus

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This is a small, flattened suckermouth catfish with a dark brown body covered in pale spots. Adult males grow fleshy bristles on the snout. Keepers like it because it stays small, grazes on algae and gets along with most community fish.

Care at a glance

Care level

Easy

Temperament

Peaceful

Adult size

10 cm

Temperature

22 to 28 °C

pH

6 to 7.5

Smallest tank

80 litres

Keep as

Singly or as a pair; give each male its own cave

Diet

Omnivore: algae wafers, blanched vegetables, sinking pellets, plus occasional bloodworm and brine shrimp

Swims

Bottom of the tank

Lifespan

5 to 10 years

Water

Freshwater

Wild range

Upper Paraguay River basin, Mato Grosso, Brazil

Breeding

It spawns in caves, and the male guards the eggs and fry until they are free swimming. Breeding happens fairly often in aquariums when caves, good water quality and a varied diet are provided.

Good to know

Fish sold under this name may not be identified correctly, as many Ancistrus species look alike and hybrids are common. Supply driftwood, because these catfish rasp on wood, and keep oxygen levels high.