Bristlenose Plec...

[bradmarsh]

Hi all,
Haven't been on for ages but have a question.

I have an ancistrus (bristlenose plec) about an inch and a half long in my tank (he's about 5 months old). It seems to have found its favourite spot under the bogwood but if my cory cats come within about 5 inches of it, it attacks them. He chases them all around the tank for 10 seconds then returns.

1) is this normal? is it stresses or something?
2) are bristlenoses ok alone or would it be better with a friend?
3) will the cory's be ok? he never seems to catch them, just scare them away.


thanks for your help! any and all advice greatfully received!!

brad

 

[smmetz]

My BN pleco got terrirotial with a common plec. At the time the BN was about 3 inches, and the common about 4 inches, in a 29 gallon tank. I had to remove the BN to a different tank. While I never actually saw my 2 plecos fighting, I assumed it happened at night. My common plec didnt have torn fins before the BN, and they healed quickly after the BN was gone. So, based on my experience, I think it's normal for a BN to be a bit territorial.

For question 2, I have my BN all by himself, no other BN to keep him company. I think they are fine without same species company.

question 3 - I'm not sure. In my case I removed the BN before any serious damage was done. If the cory cats seem to be doing OK though, maybe they would be fine in the tank, and learn to stay away. However, a 60 liter tank might be a bit too small, might not have enough floor space for seperate territories for the BN and the corys. We'll see what others say, and keep an eye on the fish to see if they start to look injured.