Jumbie teta (Ancistrus cirrhosus)

Family: Loricariidae

A peaceful algivore loricariidae from East Asian freshwaters — beginner-friendly.

Care parameters

Water temperature
18–26 °C
pH
6.5–7.5
GH hardness
5–15 dGH
Adult length
6.4–9.1 cm
Minimum tank
91 L
Water layer
Bottom; rests and forages low
Difficulty
Easy
Temperament
Peaceful
Origin
东亚淡水水系

Species overview

A Loricariidae species: Ancistrus cirrhosus lives bottom; rests and forages low over clear streams, rivers and still waters. Peaceful. Adults reach 6.4–9.1 cm. It is one of the aquarium-kept Ancistrus species we profile, alongside Ancistrus dolichopterus, Ancistrus temminckii.

Native biotope

Habitat
Clear streams, rivers and still waters
Flow
Moderate flow
Dissolved O₂
Average oxygen needs

Aquascape & hardware

Substrate
Smooth gravel and sand with open floor space
Hardscape
Driftwood, water-worn stones and shelters that mimic the native biotope
Plants
Hardy plants on hardscape; keep the floor open

Temperament, diet & tankmates

Schooling
Solitary, pairs or small groups
Diet
Algivore; quality prepared foods with variety
Recommended tankmates
  • Amur False Gudgeon — Similar size and water needs
  • China-Bitterling — Similar size and water needs
  • Acanthorhodeus chankaensis — Similar size and water needs
Avoid keeping with
  • Large aggressive cichlids — Bullying and injury risk
  • Known fin nippers — Constant stress and fin damage

Breeding & notes

Sexual dimorphism
Males are typically slimmer and more intensely colored; females fuller-bodied
Breeding method
Cave and crevice spawner; condition with rich foods and simulate seasonal changes

Frequently asked questions

Is Jumbie teta easy to keep?

Rated easy — peaceful.

What temperature and water chemistry does Jumbie teta need?

Set the heater to 18–26 °C and avoid swings. pH 6.5–7.5, GH 5–15 dGH suit it.

How big does Jumbie teta get, and what tank size?

Expect 6.4–9.1 cm as an adult, living bottom; rests and forages low. A 91 L tank or larger gives it room.

What does Jumbie teta eat?

Algivore; quality prepared foods with variety. It forages naturally over smooth gravel and sand with open floor space, so let some food reach the bottom.

Can Jumbie teta live with other fish?

Yes, with care. Peaceful — pair it with Amur False Gudgeon — Similar size and water needs, China-Bitterling — Similar size and water needs, Acanthorhodeus chankaensis — Similar size and water needs and skip Large aggressive cichlids — Bullying and injury risk, Known fin nippers — Constant stress and fin damage.

Where does Jumbie teta come from?

Its home waters are 东亚淡水水系 — clear streams, rivers and still waters, with moderate flow.

How does Jumbie teta breed?

Cave and crevice spawner; condition with rich foods and simulate seasonal changes. Males are typically slimmer and more intensely colored; females fuller-bodied.