L519 Bristlenose Pleco (also known as the Rio Itenez or Honeycomb Bristlenose):
 
Common Name: L519 Bristlenose Pleco (also known as the Rio Itenez or Honeycomb Bristlenose)
Species name: Ancistrus sp. (L519)
Species Group: Loricariid
Origin: South America – Rio Itenez (Rio Guaporé) basin on the border of Bolivia and Brazil.
Maximum Size: Approx 10–12cm
Diet: L519 Bristlenose Plecos are primarily herbivorous scavengers and are excellent algae eaters. They should be fed a base of high-quality sinking algae wafers and spirulina pellets. Their diet should be supplemented with fresh, blanched vegetables such as zucchini, cucumber, and kale. While they focus on plant matter, they will also benefit from occasional protein-rich sinking foods like bloodworms or carnivore pellets. It is essential to provide natural driftwood in the aquarium, as these plecos graze on it to obtain necessary fiber for healthy digestion.
 
Ideal Water temp: 24 – 28 degrees c
PH: 6.0 – 7.5 (They prefer stable water with good oxygenation and a moderate current)
 
Temperament:
L519 Bristlenose Plecos are peaceful, hardy, and well-suited for community aquariums. They are generally bottom-dwellers that spend their time grazing on surfaces and hiding among décor. While they are docile toward other species, males can be territorial with one another over preferred caves, so it is important to provide multiple hiding spots if keeping more than one.
This specific L-number is highly prized for its unique and beautiful "honeycomb" or marbled spotting, which is much more intricate than the common variety. Because they remain relatively small and are very effective at cleaning algae from glass and rocks, they are an ideal choice for planted tanks. They are most active during the evening hours and appreciate a setup with plenty of caves, rocks, and driftwood to feel secure.
 
TNT Notes:
Fish are are around 3cm in size.