Ancistrus temminckii

Family: Loricariidae

Ancistrus temminckii — a Loricariidae from South America. Reaches 11.2–16.5 cm; keep at 22–28 °C.

Care parameters

Water temperature
22–28 °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

Ancistrus temminckii is a Loricariidae from South America. In the wild it prefers rocky and woody stretches of streams; in the aquarium it stays peaceful. Plan on 11.2–16.5 cm of adult fish at 22–28 °C. Related profiles: Ancistrus cirrhosus, Ancistrus dolichopterus.

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 temminckii 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 temminckii need?

Hold 22–28 °C and keep it stable — 22–28 °C curated husbandry range. Heater for stable tropical warmth.

How big does Ancistrus temminckii 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 temminckii 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 temminckii live with other fish?

Yes, with care. Peaceful; territorial over a favourite cave — pair it with Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs and skip Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates.

Where does Ancistrus temminckii come from?

Its home waters are South America — rocky and woody stretches of streams, with moderate current with well-oxygenated water.

How does Ancistrus temminckii breed?

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