Gold Ancistrus Bristlenose Catfish

🐟 Gold Bristlenose Catfish (Bristlenose Pleco “Gold”)

Add a bright and hardworking centrepiece to your aquarium with the stunning Gold Bristlenose Catfish. This eye-catching colour morph of the classic Bristlenose features a vibrant golden-yellow body, often with subtle patterning and light eyes, making it stand out beautifully against darker substrates and décor.

Combining striking colour with excellent algae-eating ability, the Gold Bristlenose is both practical and visually impressive—perfect for planted and community aquariums.

🌿 Why Choose Gold Bristlenose Catfish?

✨ Vibrant golden-yellow colouration
🧼 Excellent algae eater for glass, wood, and décor
🐟 Peaceful and community-friendly bottom dweller
🪵 Thrives in natural, wood-based aquascapes
⭐ Unique colour morph of a proven favourite species

In a well-maintained aquarium, Gold Bristlenose Catfish spend their time grazing surfaces, helping control algae while adding a bright pop of colour to the lower levels of the tank.

📏 Care Requirements

🧬 Scientific Name: Ancistrus cirrhosus (Gold morph)
📛 Common Name: Gold Bristlenose Catfish / Gold Pleco
🏠 Tank Size: 80L+ recommended
📏 Adult Size: ~10–15 cm
🌡️ Temperature: 22–28°C
⚗️ pH Range: 6.0–7.5
🧘 Temperament: Peaceful
🍽️ Diet: Algae wafers, sinking pellets, vegetables, driftwood biofilm
👥 Group Size: Solitary or pairs (provide space if keeping multiples)

Gold Bristlenose Catfish thrive in well-oxygenated aquariums with driftwood, caves, and hiding spaces. Driftwood is especially important for digestion and natural behaviour.

🐠 Compatibility

Ideal for peaceful community aquariums. Suitable tank mates include tetras, rasboras, angelfish, gouramis, Corydoras, and other non-aggressive species. Avoid large aggressive bottom dwellers.

⚠️ Important Notes

Despite their algae-eating ability, Gold Bristlenose Catfish require a balanced diet including vegetables such as courgette and cucumber. Males develop characteristic bristles on the snout as they mature. Provide hiding spots to reduce territorial behaviour.

The Gold Bristlenose Catfish is a fantastic choice for UK aquarists wanting a reliable algae cleaner with added visual impact thanks to its striking golden colour.