Add both function and beauty to your tank with the Calico Bristlenose 3/4cm. This popular variety of bristlenose pleco combines the classic algae‑eating behaviour with an eye‑catching calico pattern, making it one of the best choices for community aquariums and planted tanks.
At around 3–4cm, Calico Bristlenose 3/4cm are juveniles that will grow into compact, hard‑working bottom dwellers that help control algae on glass, wood and hardscape.
Key Features of Calico Bristlenose 3/4cm
- Attractive calico colour pattern with mottled browns, creams and oranges
- Peaceful, hardy algae grazer for community tanks
- Calico Bristlenose 3/4cm stay relatively small compared to common plecos
- Great for planted and aquascaped aquariums
- Suitable for many community setups with the right tank size
A single Calico Bristlenose 3/4cm can make a big difference to the look of your glass and decor while also being a fun, character‑filled fish to watch.
Tank Requirements for Calico Bristlenose 3/4cm
To keep Calico Bristlenose 3/4cm healthy and comfortable:
- Recommended tank size: from around 2.5–3ft (90cm) and up for adults
- Provide plenty of hiding spots using driftwood, caves and rockwork
- Use sand or fine gravel substrate
- Temperature: roughly 23–28°C
- pH: about 6.5–7.8 with stable, clean water
Driftwood is especially beneficial, as Calico Bristlenose 3/4cm like to rasp on it and use it as shelter.
Ideal Tank Mates for Calico Bristlenose 3/4cm
Calico Bristlenose 3/4cm are generally peaceful and compatible with:
- Community tetras, rasboras and livebearers
- Gourami and peaceful dwarf cichlids
- Corydoras and other non‑aggressive bottom dwellers
- Shrimp and snails in well‑planned setups
Avoid keeping multiple males in very small tanks, and provide enough caves and territories if you keep more than one Calico Bristlenose 3/4cm.
Feeding Calico Bristlenose 3/4cm
While they do graze algae, Calico Bristlenose 3/4cm still need proper feeding:
- High‑quality algae wafers or sinking veg‑based pellets
- Blanched vegetables like zucchini, cucumber or spinach
- Occasional protein‑rich foods such as shrimp pellets or wafers
A varied diet keeps Calico Bristlenose 3/4cm in top condition and supports good growth, colour and long‑term health.
Aquascaping Tips for Calico Bristlenose 3/4cm
Calico Bristlenose 3/4cm look and behave best in:
- Tanks with driftwood, caves and shaded areas to hide and rest
- Planted layouts that provide cover and natural grazing surfaces
- Setups with good filtration and steady oxygenation
Design your scape so Calico Bristlenose 3/4cm have multiple hiding spots and surfaces to rasp on, which helps them feel secure and display natural behaviour.
