bristlenose catfish...

[d j hamilton]

i know that some catfish need wood as well as algae....

does the bristlenose require wood?....or can he be kept healthfully on just algae and frozen/live/pellet/flake food?

thanx for any and all replies/direction.

[John7429]

My conclusion after research is that it's helpful, therefore, should be kept, though not necessary.

[ZLewis]

Originally Posted by John7429

My conclusion after research is that it's helpful, therefore, should be kept, though not necessary.

I agree with John . I have driftwood in all my tanks with bristlenose in them.

[Homer_Simpson]

FWIW, it is suggested that:
"..the lignin and cellulose they get from that source aids in their nutrition and possibly digestion."
Source: http://www.brooklands.co.nz/fisharticle/bristlenose.htm

"...It is important for their digestion to provide wood to chew on (lignin) so a coconut shell or driftwood must be provided."
Source: http://www.goldfishparadise.com/view...p?articleId=75

My own observation with the Albino Bristlenose Pleco in my 40 gallon, is that he spends a fair amount of time on a piece of driftwood in between feedings, so either he likes the security or texture of resting on the driftwood or that he is chewing on the wood in order to get his daily dose of lignin and cellulose.

[d j hamilton]

thanx for the links and the info...

i am going to get some driftwood for my 55....will check the swapnshop!

then i plan to get 1 or 2 bristlenose for the 55.

i'm sure it'll take a minute for me to decide what piece and depending on whether it sinks immediately or not...might have to soak it.

the 55 just finished cycling with 4 platies, 1 very tiny(1.25"...she never grew! eats like a little piggy...was a rescue...had to do 'fish cpr' on her and then slowly got her back to health...have had her about 4 mos), 6 oto's and 2 cory habrosus and lots of hygrophilus difformis(water wisteria) 1 'pond grass' (mystery bulb apongeton) and a echinodorus paliofolus(sword). DIY CO2, 2 marineland 350 canisters.

i'm awaiting for about 20 plants order,to be shipped monday (woo!hoo!)

when i get the 55 the way i want it will post pix...

again...thanx all!!

you folx are AWESOME!

[Homer_Simpson]

Originally Posted by d j hamilton

thanx for the links and the info...

You are welcome. It is easy to get attached to these BN plecos when you observe their behaviour. My Albino BN Pleco has by far become one of my favourite fishes. Non-agressive, and great all around algae eater.

[John7429]

I've got a couple large pieces I could sell.. if interested, shoot me a PM

[d j hamilton]

hi John,

pm sent....