Gold Marble Bristlenose (LDA08)

The gold marble bristlenose is a small bristlenose known for the golden-yellow spots and marbled patterns on its dark body. In the hobby it is also referred to by the code LDA08. It was described from the Rio Claro in the Brazilian state of Mato Grosso.

Its standard length is 6–7 cm and its total length usually around 8 cm; it is one of the smallest bristlenoses in the trade. This makes it a good choice for small aquariums in which the common bristlenose would be too large. It is bred in the aquarium; the male guards the eggs and fry in his cave.

• 60 liters for one or two fish.
• Small caves, roots and flat stones.
• 24–27°C, clean and well-oxygenated water; moderate flow.

Mainly herbivorous. Make spirulina and vegetable tablets, blanched zucchini and spinach the staple; small frozen foods can be given once a week. Rasping on roots aids its digestion.

Peaceful and not very shy; once settled it is also seen during the day. Males chase each other over caves.

Good companions: Small tetras, rasboras, corydoras, otocinclus, shrimp.

Avoid: Cichlids that claim the bottom, large and greedy bottom dwellers.