Ancistrus ranunculus (L034)

Ancistrus ranunculus is easily told apart from other bristlenoses by its broad, flat, frog-like head and its velvety jet-black body. It lives in the fast-flowing, rocky waters of the Xingu and Tocantins basins. Its standard length reaches up to 13 cm.

Its care differs from that of the common bristlenose: it needs warmer, oxygen-rich water, and the share of protein in its diet is much higher. Fish fed only vegetables become weak. Because it likes warm, fast, well-oxygenated water, it suits river-type aquariums.

• At least 150 liters for one or two fish.
• Strong flow and aeration; flat stones, rock piles and caves.
• 27–29°C, a 30% water change every week.

An omnivore leaning toward a carnivorous diet. Make bloodworms, mysis, brine shrimp, pieces of shrimp and protein-rich sinking tablets the staple; supplement with vegetable tablets and blanched vegetables.

Peaceful; males chase each other over caves and stones. It leaves other species alone.

Good companions: Calm fish that like warm, flowing water: tetras, dwarf cichlids, sterbai corydoras.

Avoid: Coldwater fish, still and low-oxygen aquariums, large territorial plecos.