Bristlenose Catfishes: The Plecos of the Genus Ancistrus
The standard bilingual reference work on antenna catfish: over 570 pages, more than 600 photos, and detailed profiles of all known species and L-numbers of the genus Ancistrus.
The reference work on bristlenose catfish
Bristlenose Catfishes of the Genus Ancistrus are among the best-known plecos in aquatics—and also among the most diverse. Until now, information about these fish has been scattered across many magazines, books, and online sources.
“Bristlenose Catfish: The Plecos of the Genus Ancistrus” is the first comprehensive, bilingual publication on the subject. The book brings together the latest scientific data, many years of hobbyist experience, and a large number of previously unpublished photos from the wild and from aquariums.
- systematic overview of all currently valid Ancistrus species
- Inclusion of L- and LDA numbers as well as undescribed forms
- numerous biotope photographs from South America
- Practical tips on keeping and breeding fish in aquariums
Structure and Contents of the Book
General Part
The general part introduces the world of bristlenose catfish and creates the basis for understanding the many species and variants.
- Position of the genus Ancistrus within the armored catfish
- Distribution, habitats and ecological requirements
- important external characteristics and range of variation
- Notes on keeping in the aquarium: water values, decoration, feeding, socialization
- Basics of breeding: caves, brood care, raising the young fish
Species Section
The extensive species section is the heart of the book and presents all currently known forms of the genus Ancistrus.
- detailed portraits of all valid Ancistrus species (as of February 2025)
- Presentation of all known L- and LDA numbers of the genus
- additional chapters on other, still undescribed forms
- a separate chapter on the “Common Bristlenose Catfish” from aquaristics with its numerous breeding forms
- richly illustrated with photographs from natural biotopes and from aquariums
Target Groups – who Will Benefit from this Book?
The book is aimed at anyone who wants to study bristlenose catfish in more detail – in the hobby as well as in a professional environment.
- Aquarists who keep bristlenose catfish and want to better classify and understand their animals
- specialized catfish enthusiasts who are looking for rare species, L-numbers and variants
- Breeders who want to document and compare their lines
- Ichthyologists, students, and professionals who need an up-to-date, richly illustrated overview of the genus Ancistrus
Printed Standard Work and Online Platform
The book and this website complement each other. While the printed edition offers a stable, citable reference, Ancistrus.at keeps the information up to date and expands it with additional content.
The website includes:
- a constantly updated species list of the genus Ancistrus
- Short profiles of selected species with further photos
- a blog that documents new descriptions, L-numbers and interesting observations
Key Data at a Glance
- Title: Bristlenose Catfishes: The Plecos of the Genus Ancistrus
- Authors: Ingo Seidel & Andreas Tanke
- Scope: more than 570 pages
- Illustrations: over 600 photos
- Language: German / English (bilingual)
- Cover: Hardcover with thread stitching
- ISBN: 978-3-98575-006-1
Order Book
The book is available from specialist retailers and online retailers. The current edition can be ordered directly from the ATS-Aquashop.