Bristlenose Pleco (Ancistrus sp.)

Unlike their giant common pleco cousins, bristlenose plecos rarely push past five inches, which is exactly why they've become the default recommendation for anyone wanting pleco-style algae control without pleco-style size problems. They're also one of the easier plecos to breed in a home tank — males stake out a cave, and once a female obliges, he takes over guarding the eggs solo. One of our most recommended starter plecos for New Milford customers setting up their first serious community tank.

Care level: Easy · Temperament: Peaceful · Max size: ~5" · Min tank: 20 gal · Diet: Omnivore, algae wafers/veggies