Super Red Bristlenose Catfish

About the Super Red Bristlenose Catfish

The Super Red Bristlenose Catfish is one of the most sought-after Bristlenose varieties in the aquarium hobby, admired for its vibrant orange-red colouration and exceptional algae-eating ability. This selectively bred colour morph retains all the hardy characteristics of the common Bristlenose while adding a brilliant splash of colour to freshwater aquariums.

Growing much smaller than Common Plecos, the Super Red Bristlenose is an excellent choice for planted and community aquariums. They spend much of their time grazing on algae, biofilm, driftwood, and aquarium surfaces, helping to keep tanks clean while remaining peaceful with other fish.

These catfish appreciate aquariums with driftwood, caves, and shaded hiding places where they can rest during the day. Driftwood is particularly important as it aids digestion and mimics their natural habitat. While they will consume algae, they should also be offered a varied diet of algae wafers, sinking pellets, fresh vegetables, and occasional frozen foods to ensure optimal health and vibrant colouration.

Hardy, peaceful, and easy to care for, the Super Red Bristlenose Catfish is an outstanding addition to both beginner and experienced aquariums.

Quick Care Guide

Scientific Name

Ancistrus sp. "Super Red"

Common Name

Super Red Bristlenose Catfish

Origin

Captive-bred variety of South American Ancistrus

Adult Size

10–13 cm

Temperament

Peaceful

Diet

Omnivore (primarily herbivorous)

Minimum Tank Size

80 Litres

Temperature

23–28°C

pH

6.5–7.8

Water Hardness

2–20 dGH

Difficulty

Beginner

Lifespan

5–10 Years

Suitable For

Community aquariums and planted tanks

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Super Red Bristlenose Catfish good algae eaters?

Yes. They are excellent algae grazers and will feed on soft algae and biofilm, helping keep aquarium surfaces clean.

How big do Super Red Bristlenose Catfish grow?

Most adults reach between 10 and 13 cm, making them much smaller and more suitable for home aquariums than Common Plecos.

What do Super Red Bristlenose Catfish eat?

They enjoy algae wafers, sinking pellets, zucchini, cucumber, spinach, pumpkin, driftwood, and occasional frozen foods such as bloodworms.

Can Super Red Bristlenose Catfish live with shrimp?

Yes. They are peaceful and generally ignore adult shrimp and other community species.

Do Bristlenose Catfish need driftwood?

Yes. Driftwood provides shelter and a natural source of fibre, which plays an important role in their digestion.

Common Mistakes

Assuming algae alone is enough food

While they eat algae, they require a balanced diet including vegetables and quality sinking foods.

Not providing driftwood

Driftwood is beneficial for digestion and gives Bristlenose Catfish a place to graze and hide.

Keeping them in immature aquariums

Established aquariums provide natural biofilm and more stable water conditions.

Overfeeding

Feed only what they will consume overnight to avoid unnecessary waste and poor water quality.

Poor oxygenation

Good filtration and adequate water movement help maintain healthy, active fish.