Description:
The Peppermint Bristlenose is Ancistrus, a genus comprising nocturnal freshwater fish native to South American freshwater habitats, they are renowned in the aquarium hobby as the Bristlenose catfish. Peppermints are a highly prized variety, recognised by their deep black body speckled with crisp white dots that appear to shimmer under aquarium lighting, giving them a distinct and elegant appearance.
Mature male Bristlenose display a striking feature: the growth of prominent, bushy-like horns on their faces. This distinctive trait has earned them the affectionate nickname of "the bushy nose catfish," adding to their allure and mystique in the aquarium hobby. Females also exhibit the development of these characteristic horns, in a more refined fashion, typically around their lips rather than across the entirety of their heads like their male counterparts.
Temperament:
Known for their peaceful disposition, Bristlenose catfish typically keep to themselves. However, in environments with restricted space or caves, male Bristlenose may exhibit territorial behaviour, particularly towards other males. Despite this, they generally coexist harmoniously with a wide array of fish species, although compatibility with the water parameters of potential tank mates should be considered.
Diet:
The Bristlenose pleco has proficiency in consuming algae which plays a pivotal role in maintaining optimal algae levels within aquariums. While Bristlenose catfish have a diverse diet that consist of various algae species, it's highly advisable to supplement their nutrition with algae and/or meat based wafers and fresh vegetables such as cucumber and zucchini that have been blanched for safe consumption. Furthermore, the inclusion of driftwood in aquarium setups provides them with additional sustenance, as they graze on the microflora and microfauna that thrive on its surface.
- Species – Ancistrus sp. L183
- Common Name – Peppermint Bristlenose
- Origin – South America
- Temperament - Peaceful
- Diet – Omnivore
- Minimum Tank Requirement - 75 litres
- Tank Level - Bottom dweller
- Care Level - easy
- PH Range – 6.5 – 7.5
- Temperature – Tropical 22°c – 26°c
- Breed Type – Egg Layer - Usually in caves
- Size – approximately 10-15cm
- Sex – Un-sexed
- Float the Bag: Place the unopened bag in your tank and let it float for 15–20 minutes. This lets the water inside the bag slowly match your tank’s temperature.
- Turn Off the Lights: Keep the aquarium lights off during this process. It helps keep things calm and prevents sudden temperature changes.
- Add a Bit of Tank Water: After floating, carefully open the bag and pour out about half the water into a sink or bucket (not into your tank). Then, slowly add small amounts of your tank water into the bag over 15–20 minutes. This helps your fish adjust to the new water conditions.
- Gently Move the Fish: Use a fish net to gently move your fish from the bag into the tank. Try not to pour the bag water into your tank — this helps keep your aquarium clean and healthy.
- Watch and Wait: It’s normal for fish to hide or act a bit shy at first. Keep an eye on them, and avoid doing a water change for the first 24 hours to give them time to settle in.
For more detailed steps and tips, feel free to visit our Acclimation Guide in our Education tab to help make the transition as smooth as possible for your new fish.
Peppermint Bristlenose
Peppermint Bristlenose
Low stock: 8 left
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Why Shop With us — Our Guarantee & Shipping Info
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Is Your Tank Ready? — Important Info Before Buying
Is Your Tank Ready? — Important Info Before Buying
⚠️ Important: Please ensure your aquarium is fully cycled before introducing any new fish. A cycled tank provides a stable, healthy environment and helps prevent stress, illness and even death of your new fish! If you’re unsure what this means, visit the Education section of our website and read our page on The Nitrogen Cycle.
🐟 Want expert tips for your aquarium? Beginners can start with How to set up your aquarium, while everyone can check out Aquarium Maintenece & Care for ongoing tank tips!
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