Flowing Fins and Algae-Eating Power

For the safety of our animals, we now ship live fish exclusively via UPS Next Day Air. If your order contains this item, you will only see UPS Next Day Air as a shipping option during checkout.

The Long Finned Green Dragon Bristlenose Pleco is a dazzling tank-bred variety of Ancistrus, featuring vibrant green coloration and elegant, flowing fins that add graceful movement to any aquarium. These USA-bred plecos are more than just beautifultheyre hardworking algae grazers and peaceful community members that thrive in a wide range of freshwater setups.

What We Love About This Fish:

Elegant Long Finnage: Dramatic tail and pectoral fins create beautiful motion.
Stunning Green Coloration: Deep green body with a metallic sheen.
Algae-Eating Machine: Excellent at keeping tank surfaces clean.
Peaceful Nature: Safe with most non-aggressive tankmates.
Hardy and Adaptable: Tank-bred in the USA for resilience and ease of care.

Natural Habitat:

While this variant is selectively bred in the USA, its wild ancestors are native to South American rivers and streams. These slow-moving waters are rich in driftwood, leaf litter, and rocky areasperfect for foraging and shelter.

Aquascaping:

Plants: Ideal with Java Fern, Anubias, Bolbitis, and other low-light species.
Hardscape: Include smooth river rocks, slate caves, and Malaysian driftwood to aid digestion.
Botanicals: Indian Almond Leaves and Alder Cones help release tannins and create a more natural feel.

Behavior and Social Traits:

Long Finned Green Dragon Bristlenose Plecos are generally calm and curious, often venturing out even during the day.
Peaceful community fish that wont bother tankmates.
Territorial males: Best to keep only one male per tank unless it’s large with plenty of cover.
Active foragers: Constantly grazing on driftwood, dcor, and glass.

Diet and Feeding:

These plecos are omnivorous with a strong preference for plant matter. A well-rounded diet should include:
High-quality algae wafers or spirulina-based pellets
Blanched vegetables like zucchini, cucumber, and spinach
Occasional protein treats such as shrimp pellets or frozen bloodworms

Tank Mates and Compatibility:

This peaceful species fits well in most community aquariums. Suitable tankmates include:
Tetras, Rasboras, Guppies, Mollies
Corydoras, Kuhli Loaches, and peaceful gouramis
Avoid aggressive or fin-nipping species that may damage their long fins.

Shrimp Safe:

Generally safe with adult Neocaridina and Caridina shrimp. Provide moss, caves, and leaf litter to protect shrimp fry.

Breeding:

Males will claim caves and guard eggs laid by females. Provide multiple hiding places, stable parameters, and plenty of driftwood to support successful breeding.

Recommended Tank Parameters:

Temperature: 72 – 82 F (22 – 28 C)
pH: 6.5 – 7.5
KH: 3 – 10 dKH
Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons (30+ gallons recommended for multiple plecos)

Care Guidelines:

Diet: Omnivorousfocus on algae wafers, vegetables, and some protein.
Social Behavior: Peaceful; males may become territorial with one another.
Origin: Tank-bred in the USA.
Average Adult Size: 4 – 5 inches (10 – 12 cm), excluding fin extensions
Average Purchase Size: 1.5 – 2.5 inches (3.8 – 6.3 cm)

Why Choose the Long Finned Green Dragon Bristlenose Pleco?

This pleco offers the perfect blend of beauty and function. Its long, flowing fins and deep green color make it a showstopper, while its algae-eating ability and peaceful demeanor make it a valuable part of any freshwater cleanup crew.

Live Arrival Guarantee:

All Aquatic Arts brand animals and plants come with a 100% live arrival guarantee, plus free email support to ensure the health and success of your aquarium!