Which Bristlenose is Best For A Small Tank?

[robertprice]

I often get asked what is the smallest "pleco" or the best one for a small tank. Ancistrus cirrhosus, the Common Bristlenose, can get over 4 inches. Ancistrus claro, the Marbled Bristlenose, only gets 2.8 inches long and is a very attractive white and black filigree color. It is suitable for 10 to 15 gallon tanks.

[stevem]

both are not usually seen in your local pet stores
more so with the latter

[robertprice]

Depends where your local pet shop is. Jing Chan's JC Aquarium at 123 Elizabeth Street in Chinatown carrys a lot of the less common Anicstrus and Dwarf Plecos.

[stevem]

i never see them in Brooklyn

[robertprice]

Mine told me it won't go to Brooklyn unless it can suck the Cyclone clean. Seriously, I'm not familar enough with Brooklyn Aquarium Stores to know what they carry. Lots of small Ancistrus and Dwarf Plecos pop up in Chinatown between Mulberry and Elizabeth Streets.

[stevem]

the ones from brooklyn are tougher

[robertprice]

The ones in Brooklyn may be tougher, but that's where they learn to suck slime off the other fish!