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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.
