L144a, Big-Eyed Ancistrus

Geographic Origin and Biotope: Originating from the lower Orinoco River basin (Venezuela). Inhabits sandy and muddy bottoms, where the water takes on a turbid coloring (whitewater) and fish must rely on other senses besides sight.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Large-eyed Bristlenose Pleco (Ancistrus macrophthalmus). The defining feature of this benthic little fish is explicit in its scientific name: it possesses staggeringly large and protruding eyes, proportionally enormous compared to the head.

Social Behavior: Very peaceful and reserved. During the day it stays motionless exploiting the formidable camouflage of its color, only to dart away very fast as soon as night falls to scrape the surface of logs and leaves.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Sand gray or clay background, covered by a myriad of very fine darker dots that make it invisible on the silty bottom. Males exhibit the typical facial fleshy ramifications (the "Y" shaped bristles), almost totally absent in females.

Aquarium Setup: Modest dimensions: an 80 cm (32 inches) tank is sufficient. Fundamental the use of very soft sand. The aquarium must feature large shaded areas, provided by horizontal slate slabs and plenty of dry wood to gnaw on.

Diet and Feeding: Exclusively or predominantly vegetarian. The intake of cellulose fibers (from gnawing wood) and plant-based foods (Spirulina, chlorella, pleco wafers) is fundamental to guarantee its gastrointestinal motility.

Water Quality: Moderately warm water (23-27°C / 73-81°F). Does not like "stadium" lighting: soft or strongly shielded lights are necessary, otherwise this Loricariid will remain hidden, refusing to feed, until it dies of starvation.

Compatibility and Tankmates: The emblem of the peaceful community fish. Coexists without any friction with small Characins (Neons, Cardinals), Rasboras, and Corydoras. Due to the small size, avoid it if you own predatory fish with an easy bite or large dominant algae eaters.

Aquarium Reproduction: Reproduces in narrow clay tubes, often ignored if the orifice is too wide for the size of the male. Spawning generally of 30-50 amber eggs, strenuously cared for by the male who even prevents the female from approaching.

Risks and Diseases: Quartering it in tanks of digging Cichlids will lead to irreparable injuries to its large prominent eyes, an easy vehicle for septicemia (infectious exophthalmos). Preventive wood hydration to avoid abdominal scratches.