Ancistrus dolichopterus

Family: Loricariidae

Ancistrus dolichopterus — a Loricariidae from South America. Reaches 11.2–16.5 cm; keep at 23–29 °C.

Care parameters

Water temperature
23–29 °C
pH
6.5–7.5
GH hardness
5–15 dGH
Adult length
11.2–16.5 cm
Minimum tank
327 L
Water layer
Bottom-dwelling
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Peaceful; territorial over a favourite cave
Origin
South America

Species overview

A Loricariidae species native to South America: Ancistrus dolichopterus lives bottom-dwelling over rocky and woody stretches of streams. Peaceful; territorial over a favourite cave. Adults reach 11.2–16.5 cm. It is one of the aquarium-kept Ancistrus species we profile, alongside Ancistrus cirrhosus, Ancistrus temminckii.

Native biotope

Habitat
Rocky and woody stretches of streams
Flow
Moderate current with well-oxygenated water
Dissolved O₂
Appreciates high dissolved oxygen

Aquascape & hardware

Substrate
Sand and gravel with driftwood
Hardscape
Driftwood and smooth stones with grazing surfaces
Plants
Hardy plants; algae growth welcomed

Temperament, diet & tankmates

Schooling
Singles, pairs or small groups
Diet
Herbivorous-leaning omnivore; algae and sinking foods
Recommended tankmates
  • Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs
Avoid keeping with
  • Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates

Breeding & notes

Sexual dimorphism
Males develop odontodes on the snout
Breeding method
Cave spawner; male guards the clutch

Frequently asked questions

Is Ancistrus dolichopterus easy to keep?

A moderate-level species: peaceful; territorial over a favourite cave; stable water matters more than fancy equipment.

What temperature and water chemistry does Ancistrus dolichopterus need?

Set the heater to 23–29 °C and avoid swings. pH 6.5–7.5, GH 5–15 dGH suit it.

How big does Ancistrus dolichopterus get, and what tank size?

Full size is 11.2–16.5 cm. Minimum tank: 327 L, with open swimming space along its bottom-dwelling habits.

What does Ancistrus dolichopterus eat?

Herbivorous-leaning omnivore; algae and sinking foods. It forages naturally over sand and gravel with driftwood, so let some food reach the bottom.

Can Ancistrus dolichopterus live with other fish?

Peaceful; territorial over a favourite cave; singles, pairs or small groups. Good company: Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs. Keep away from Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates.

Where does Ancistrus dolichopterus come from?

Comes from South America: rocky and woody stretches of streams. Expect moderate current with well-oxygenated water and appreciates high dissolved oxygen.

How does Ancistrus dolichopterus breed?

Cave spawner; male guards the clutch. Males develop odontodes on the snout.