Ancistrus multispinis

Ancistrus multispinis is a bristlenose that lives in the Atlantic coastal streams of Brazil stretching from Rio de Janeiro to Rio Grande do Sul. It looks similar to the common bristlenose, but its range lies further south and its temperature values are somewhat lower. Its standard length reaches up to 14 cm.

Academic studies on rearing the fry of this species have also been carried out in Türkiye. It is easy to keep and breeds readily in the aquarium.

• 100 liters for one or two fish.
• Roots, caves and flat stones; males claim caves.
• 22–25°C, clean and well-oxygenated water; moderate flow.

Mainly herbivorous. Make vegetable and spirulina tablets, blanched zucchini, cucumber and spinach the staple; bloodworms can be given once a week. It rasps on roots. The algae in the aquarium is not enough on its own.

Peaceful; it leaves other fish and shrimp alone. Males chase each other over caves. It is more active at night, but is also seen during the day once settled.

Good companions: Community fish that like temperate water: tetras, rasboras, danios, corydoras, shrimp.

Avoid: Large cichlids that claim the bottom, species that need very warm water such as discus.