Three Ray Bushynose (Ancistrus triradiatus)

Remarks:  The three ray bushynose (Ancistrus triradiatus), also known as the golden spot bushynose, is a Loricariid commonly found in the Meta region of the Rio Negro in Colombia. They were a species well known to the hobby before the common bushynose pleco and all of its variations became the most popular Ancistrus among fishkeepers. It is speculated that the three ray bushynose may have possibly had a part in the development of the man-made forms of the common bushynose pleco due to their heavy similarity in appearance, behavior, and hardiness. However, this is not confirmed as it is unknown exactly what species were used to produce the common bushynose pleco we know today or whether it is a hybrid at all. Similar to a chocolate bushynose, the three ray bushynose displays a mottled pattern of grays, browns, and tans that can vary based on the individual and mood. What has given them their common name and is most often used to identify the species is the unique three soft rays found in their anal fins.  The terms “bushynose” or “bristlenose” often used in reference to Loricariids belonging to the Ancistrus genus is derived from the long and elaborate tentacles that develop on the faces of males. The bigger the "beard" as some call it, the more dominant the male. Females will occasionally develop bristles as well along the edges of their face making it difficult to differentiate young males from females. These bristles are tempting for nippy and aggressive fish so this combined with bushynose plecos not having much armor compared to other species is why they should not be housed with nippy or aggressive fish. The pleco itself can pose a danger in the case of fish trying to swallow them as they have spines on their fins that they will flare out if being attacked to prevent the fish from eating them. This can result in the fish choking and the loss of both it and the pleco if the pleco remains stuck in the mouth of the fish.     Bushynose plecos do not grow very large and are mostly peaceful so they can fit in well in smaller aquariums. Typically, the only aggression shown tends to be among males fighting over spawning caves. They can be kept with shrimp if the population has been given plenty of time to grow and begin reproducing regularly as the bushynose pleco will prey on them occasionally. While they are omnivores, they prefer to have a diet consisting mostly of vegetable matter and will voraciously feed on algae. Their appetite for algae does not diminish as they grow like in the case of common plecos making them an excellent addition to the cleanup crew in a tank. Typically, plants will not be eaten unless the pleco is starving or the plant is already dying.   Breeding bushynose plecos can be very easy so long as all their needs are attended to and spawning sites are provided. Bushynose plecos are cave spawners where males will choose a small cave where he will chase females into to spawn. Once the female has laid eggs, it will be left up to the male to guard the cave and keep the eggs clean as the female leaves. They fan the eggs with their fins to keep fresh water flowing over them to help prevent them from fungusing and ensuring they get plenty of oxygen. Once the eggs hatch, the male will keep the fry inside the cave until they have absorbed their yolk sack and have become free swimming. This high level of parental care is fascinating to watch and is also why it is usually best to leave the eggs with the father to care for rather than removing them.