Bristlenose Catfish

Scientific name: Ancistrus temmincki

A suckermouth catfish, the Bristlenose Catfish reaches a length of 5.5 inches. It is hardy as long as good water quality and adequate amounts of vegetable material are provided. The water temperature should be between 70º and 80º Fahrenheit with a pH of 6.5 to 7.5 and moderately soft to mildly hard water. All commercial foods are accepted, but parboiled, sliced zucchini and cooked peas should also be offered.

Aquarium Fish Image Gallery

Male and female Bristlenose Catfish are easily distinguishable. The males have an elaborate array of branched and forked tentacles on the head and around the upper jaw. The females have tentacles, too, but they are arranged in a neat row around the mouth and are not nearly as prominent.