Bristlenose Pleco Care: The Lazy Owners Guide

Bristlenose Plecos are popular freshwater fish often favored by beginners. With their unique looks and helpful cleaning abilities, they make an interesting addition to any aquarium. However, proper care is essential to ensure their well-being and happiness. 

In this article, we’ll go over everything you need to know about Bristlenose Pleco care. So, keep reading!

TL;DR

Bristlenose plecos are ideal for beginner fishkeepers due to their hardy nature and ease of care. Keep the temperature in the tank between 70-80°F and the pH level between 6.5-7.5 to keep them happy.

When keeping bristlenose plecos, it’s best to keep them in a tank that is at least 30 gallons in size, with plenty of hiding spots and driftwood for them to explore and graze on. With the right care, they can even live for 10-15 years.

Bristlenose plecos are primarily herbivorous, so their diet should consist of algae-based sinking pellets, blanched vegetables like zucchini and cucumber, and occasional treats of frozen or live foods such as bloodworms.

When it comes to choosing tankmates, opt for peaceful fish that won’t bother or outcompete your plecos for food. Suitable companions include small tetras like neon or cardinal tetras, peaceful rasboras, corydoras catfish, and dwarf gouramis. Lastly, avoid pairing them with aggressive or territorial fish to ensure a harmonious community tank.

Are Bristlenose Plecos Easy To Keep?

Bristlenose Plecos are generally easy to take care of. They’re tough, eat a simple diet, and get along well with others. Just give them some hiding spots, keep their tank clean, and choose tank mates wisely. With a little love and attention, these cool plecos will thrive in your tank!

One reason they’re easy to care for is that they can adapt to different water conditions. So you don’t have to stress too much about getting everything just right.

Feeding them is a piece of cake too! They mostly eat algae and plants, so you can give them things like algae wafers, blanched veggies like zucchini or spinach, as well as sinking pellets. They’ll munch away happily and keep your tank clean.

(If you want to know about some of the easiest fish to keep, then check out this article of the 15 easiest fish to keep! Voted by over 150 fishkeepers!)

Here is what other people had to say about caring for bristlenose plecos! As you can see, making sure there is enough driftwood in the tank is vital!

Name	Bristlenose Plecos (Ancistrus Cirrhosus)
Cost	$7.99+ Per Fish
Origin	South America (Amazon River Basin)
Care Level	Easy-Intermediate
Lifespan	10-15 Years
Size	2-3.5 Inches
Tank Size	30 Gallons
pH	6.5-7.5
Temperature	70-80°F
KH	6-10
GH	2-12
Diet	Herbivores
Feeding	Algae, Sinking Algae Wafers, Decaying Plant Matter
Community Tank	Yes
Tank Level	Top-Mid Level
Plants	Java Moss, Anubias, Amazon Sword, Water Wisteria, Java Fern
Tank Mates	Neon Tetras, Corydoras Catfish, Harlequin Rasboras, Cherry Barbs, Guppies, Dwarf Gourami’s, Kuhli Loaches, Otocinclus Catfish, White Cloud Mountain Minnows, Swordtails
Breeding	Easy
Breeding Type	Egg Layer

Appearance

Bristlenose Plecos have one of the most unique looks when it comes to tropical fishkeeping. They’re small, have speckled bodies, and their heads are covered in bristles. If you want a fish that stands out and has a bit of personality, Bristlenose Plecos are a great choice!

Now, here’s what makes them unique in terms of appearance. Bristlenose Plecos have a broad body shape. Their bodies are flat on the bottom, which helps them stick to surfaces like rocks or the sides of your tank.

Their color can vary, but the most common types are dark brown, green, or gray. What makes them really interesting are the light yellow or white spots all over their bodies. These spots make them look speckled like they have little dots all over.

Now, let’s talk about their head. Bristlenose Plecos have something special going on there. They have fleshy things on their snouts called bristles, which is why they’re called “bristlenose” in the first place.  

These bristles can be short or long, depending on the fish and if it’s a male or a female. Male Bristlenose Plecos usually have longer and fancier bristles than females. But aside from making them look more interesting, these bristles help them sense their surroundings and attract mates.

It’s good to know that there are different kinds of Bristlenose Plecos you can find. Some may have different patterns or colors, like being all white or having different shades. These variations can make them even more interesting to look at in your tank.

Size

On average, Bristlenose Plecos grow to be around 5 inches. That’s about the size of your hand, from your wrist to the tip of your fingers. Compared to other plecos, they’re actually considered small to medium-sized fish.

Their small size has a few benefits. It means you can keep them in tanks that hold 30 gallons of water and they won’t outgrow their space too quickly! But of course, giving them more room is always nice, so they can swim around comfortably.

Another advantage of their size is that they can get along with other fish that are similar in size and behavior. You just have to make sure the other fish in the tank are a good match. It’s important to think about what different fish need and how they’ll get along together.

It’s worth mentioning that male Bristlenose Plecos are usually a bit bigger than females. But in general, most Bristlenose Plecos fall within the 5 inches range.

Behavior

Bristlenose Plecos are peaceful, algae-loving fish that bring a sense of calm to your tank. They clean up algae, enjoy their veggies, and appreciate having hiding spots. Watching their behaviors, especially during breeding, can be quite fascinating.

Bristlenose Plecos are usually calm fish. They don’t start fights or try to take over the tank. Instead, they mind their own business and get along well with other fish. 

One cool thing about Bristlenose Plecos is that they love eating algae. They use their special mouths to scrape off the algae from different surfaces, like rocks and the glass of the tank.

Another interesting thing about their behavior is that they like to have hiding spots. They feel safe and comfortable in places where they can hide. So, make sure to provide them with caves, hollow logs, or other areas they can hide in the tank. 

And when it’s breeding time, Bristlenose Plecos can show some interesting behaviors. The males can do special dances to impress the females, and they become protective of their eggs until their fry are born.

Lifespan

Bristlenose Plecos have a lifespan of around 10 to 15 years. That’s quite a long time for a fish! And with proper care and a suitable environment, they can live a full and healthy life.

It’s good to know that how long Bristlenose Plecos live can change based on different things. If you keep their tank clean, make sure the water is good, and feed them a balanced diet, they can live longer. 

Regular water changes and monitoring the water parameters, such as temperature and pH levels, are also essential for your Bristlenose Plecos’ well-being and can also affect their lifespan.

Additionally, offering a varied diet that includes algae, vegetable matter, and commercially available foods formulated for plecos helps ensure they receive the necessary nutrients.

It’s also important to remember that genes can affect how long your Bristlenose Plecos live. Some fish may naturally live longer than others. So, choosing healthy Plecos and taking good care of them from the beginning of their life can help them live longer.

Bristlenose Plecos Water Parameters

Now, let’s talk about the water parameters that are important for keeping Bristlenose Plecos happy and healthy in your aquarium. 

Name	Bristlenose Pleco
pH	6.0-8.0
Temperature	64-72°F
GH	5-19
KH	10-15
Tank Size	10 Gallons

pH

Bristlenose Plecos like their water to be slightly acidic or neutral. The best pH range for them is between 6.5 and 7.5. It’s important to keep the pH stable because big changes can stress out your Plecos. You can use a pH test kit to check the water and make any necessary adjustments.

Temperature

Bristlenose Plecos come from warm areas, so they like the water to be on the warmer side. The ideal temperature for them is between 70°F and 80°F. Make sure to use a thermometer to check the water temperature and adjust it if needed.

Water Hardness

Lastly, let’s talk about water hardness. Bristlenose Plecos can live in different levels of water hardness, but they prefer it to be somewhat soft or moderately hard. A good range is between 2 and 12 dGH. Always use a test kit to measure the water hardness and make sure it’s within the right range.

Bristlenose Plecos Tank Size

Bristlenose Plecos are active fish and they need enough room to swim around and explore. A larger tank size, such as 30 gallons or more, gives them the room they need to move and be happy.

Having a larger tank is also good for the water quality. Since Bristlenose Plecos are known to produce lots of waste due to the amount of food they eat, having more water to dissolve waste keeps the environment stable for them. It’s important to keep the water clean and healthy for their well-being. 

So, if you plan to keep more than one Bristlenose Pleco or other fish in the same tank, you’ll need an even bigger tank. This way, everyone has enough space to live comfortably and thrive.

What Do Bristlenose Plecos Like In The Wild?

In the wild, Bristlenose Plecos are mostly found in rivers and streams in South America, like the Amazon River. They have certain things they enjoy in their natural habitat.

One thing they like is driftwood. In the wild, they find fallen branches and logs to hide and eat from. Driftwood also helps them keep their teeth healthy by scraping off algae and biofilm. They also like lots of plants. 

Bristlenose Plecos are known as herbivores, and they love to graze on surfaces covered in algae and other plant matter in the wild. And speaking of places, Bristlenose Plecos like to stay in areas with a gentle to medium water flow. It gives them oxygen and helps them move their food around.

To ensure that your Bristlenose Plecos feel comfortable in your tank, be sure to provide hiding spots and grazing areas with driftwood, as well as various plants for both shelter and grazing.

How To Setup A Tank For Bristlenose Plecos 

Setting up a tank for Bristlenose Plecos requires several steps to ensure their comfort and happiness. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to set up a tank for these unique and fascinating fish:

Choose the Right Tank

Select a suitable tank size for your Bristlenose Pleco, with a minimum of 30 gallons of water. And ensure the tank has a secure lid to prevent any escapes.

Add the Substrate

Place a layer of sandy or fine-gravel substrate on the bottom of the tank. This substrate mimics your Plecos’ natural riverbed habitat and providing a comfortable environment for them. You can also use aquarium soil, which can help provide extra nutrients for the plants in your tank.

Install the Heater

Attach a reliable aquarium heater to maintain a stable water temperature for the Plecos. Set the heater to the recommended temperature range of 70-80°F.

Install the Filter

Install a suitable filtration system that can handle the tank’s size and efficiently remove impurities from the water. Ensure the filter is properly set up and functioning before adding the Plecos.

Add Water Conditioner

Treat the water with a quality water conditioner to remove harmful chlorine and chloramine. Follow the instructions on the conditioner bottle for the correct dosage based on your tank’s volume.

Fill the Tank

Fill the tank with dechlorinated water, leaving enough space at the top to allow for water movement and prevent any potential overflow.

Test the Water

Use a reliable water test kit to check the water parameters such as pH, ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels. After checking, make any necessary adjustments to ensure the water is suitable for the Plecos.

Acclimate the Plecos

Slowly introduce the Bristlenose Plecos to the tank by floating their bag in the water for about 15-20 minutes. Then, gradually add small amounts of tank water to the bag at regular intervals and let them swim for another 15-20 minutes to help them acclimate. 

Finally, carefully release the Plecos into your tank.

Monitor the Tank

Keep an eye on the temperature, water quality, and behavior of the Plecos. Make sure the heater and filter are functioning properly, and perform regular water tests to maintain optimal conditions.

Feed and Maintain the Tank

Provide a balanced diet for the Plecos, including algae-based sinking pellets, fresh vegetables, and occasional protein-rich treats. Also, don’t forget to perform regular maintenance tasks such as partial water changes, substrate cleaning, and filter maintenance.

(If you’ve never setup a tank before, you may be wondering what else there is to do! Well here’s a complete guide on the steps you’ll need to take!)

Bristlenose Plecos Male Vs Female

To figure out if your Plecos are male or female, you can look at their size, bristle development, and behavior. But keep in mind, these differences may not be obvious until the Plecos are around 6 to 12 months old and fully grown.

One way to tell them apart is by their size. Male Bristlenose Plecos are a bit larger than females. However, female Bristlenose Plecos may appear to have more rounded bodies than males, especially when observed from the side. This is especially true when they carry eggs for spawning.

Another way to distinguish them is by the bristles or “whiskers” on their faces. Male Bristlenose Plecos have longer and more noticeable bristles on their heads. Female Bristle Plecos, on the other hand, have shorter bristles.

And during breeding season, males can be more aggressive and territorial compared to females. They might chase away other fish and claim their own space in the tank.

Both male and female Bristlenose Plecos can have beautiful patterns and colors. But remember, the colors can vary depending on things like genetics and the environment.

Bristlenose Plecos Diet

Bristlenose Plecos are primarily herbivores, which means they eat plant-based foods. Their diet mainly consists of algae and other plant matter. In the wild, they graze on surfaces covered in algae, like rocks and driftwood.

To keep them healthy in your tank, it’s important to offer them a variety of foods. You can provide them with specially formulated algae wafers or pellets that are designed for bottom-dwelling fish. These sinking foods are easy for the Plecos to find and eat.

In addition to algae-based foods, you can supplement their diet with fresh vegetables. They enjoy eating veggies like zucchini, cucumber, and spinach. But before giving them vegetables, make sure to wash them thoroughly and remove any pesticides or harmful substances.

It’s also a good idea to blanch the vegetables by briefly boiling or steaming them. This softens the vegetables and makes them easier for the Plecos to eat. Afterward, you can place the vegetables in the tank and watch as they nibble on them.

Remember to remove any uneaten vegetables after a few hours to prevent them from spoiling and polluting the water.

While Bristlenose Plecos are mainly herbivorous, they can also consume small amounts of meat-based foods. With this in mind you can either feed them commercially available flakes as well as blanched vegetables. And remember, their primary diet should consist of plant-based foods.

It’s important to provide a balanced and varied diet for Bristlenose Plecos to ensure they receive all the necessary nutrients. This will help them maintain good health and vibrant colors.

Bristlenose Plecos Tank Mates 

Your Bristlenose Plecos will be happy to coexist with other fish in your tank, but it’s important to choose the right ones. So, here  are 10 tank mates that can live peacefully with Bristlenose Plecos, and in community tanks in general:

Neon Tetras

These small, colorful fish with their shimmering blue and red bodies are like living jewels in your tank. They happily swim together in groups, creating a vibrant display.

Corydoras Catfish

With their cute, whiskered faces and playful nature, Corydoras catfish are like the clowns of the aquarium. They love to stay along the bottom of your tank, keeping it nice and clean as they go.

Harlequin Rasboras

These lively fish have striking orange and black patterns that add excitement to your tank. They dart around in schools, bringing energy and movement to the aquatic scene.

Cherry Barbs

Cherry Barbs are like tiny, swimming rubies with their deep red colors. They gracefully glide through the water, adding a touch of elegance to the tank.

Guppies

Guppies are like living rainbows with their vibrant colors and flowing fins. These lively fish come in a variety of patterns and can captivate you with their playful antics.

Dwarf Gouramis

These charming fish display brilliant shades of blue, red, and yellow, resembling tiny aquatic jewels. Their peaceful nature and unique patterns make them a delightful addition to any tank.

Kuhli Loaches

Kuhli Loaches are like mysterious eels with their slender bodies and playful behavior. They love sifting through the substrate, exploring every corner of your aquarium.

Otocinclus Catfish

These tiny catfish are like little vacuum cleaners, tirelessly munching on algae. Their gentle nature and love for cleanliness make them perfect companions for Bristlenose Plecos.

White Cloud Mountain Minnows

These graceful, silver-bodied fish are like glimmers of light swimming through the water. With their calm nature, they’ll make your tank even more relaxing to look at.

Swordtails

Swordtails are like living canvases with their vibrant colors and elongated, sword-like tails. Their active nature and striking appearance make them a captivating addition to any tank.

(Want to know about over 50 more great colorful fish?)

Best Plants for Bristlenose Plecos 

Plants not only make the tank look nice but also provide hiding spots and surfaces for Plecos to graze on. So, here are five of the best plants for your Bristlenose Plecos.

Java Fern

This hardy and versatile plant is an excellent choice for Bristlenose Pleco tanks. Its broad, textured leaves provide great hiding spots and surfaces for Plecos to graze on.

Anubias

Anubias plants are known for their sturdy, dark green leaves. They’re slow-growing and easy to care for, making them ideal for Pleco tanks. Your Plecos can rest on the leaves and nibble on any algae that may grow on them.

Amazon Sword

The Amazon Sword plant is a popular choice for larger tanks with Bristlenose Plecos. Its long, broad leaves create a lush and natural environment while offering hiding places for the Plecos.

Java Moss

Java Moss is a great addition to any Pleco tank. This moss-like plant provides excellent coverage and can be attached to driftwood or rocks, creating a cozy environment for Plecos to explore.

Water Sprite

Water Sprite is another floating plant that adds a touch of beauty to Pleco tanks. Its delicate, feathery leaves provide shade and cover, making Plecos feel secure and comfortable.

Bristlenose Plecos Breeding

Breeding Bristlenose Plecos can be a fascinating experience. Understanding the process and taking the necessary steps can increase the chances of successful breeding. So, here are the key aspects to consider.

Choose the Breeding Pair

To successfully breed Bristlenose Plecos, you need to have both male and female Plecos. To tell their genders apart, Males normally have longer and more bristles on their heads compared to females.

Breeding Tank Setup

Create a suitable breeding environment by providing a spacious breeding tank with plenty of hiding places, such as caves, pipes, or driftwood. These hiding spots give the female Pleco a safe place to lay her eggs.

Water Conditions

To encourage breeding, try to replicate the conditions of a cooler rainy season of Amazon rivers. You can slowly add some cool water in your tank, and the pH level should be slightly acidic to neutral, ideally around 5.8 to 7.0. Regular water changes and proper filtration are also crucial.

Diet and Conditioning

To stimulate breeding behavior, provide a varied and nutritious diet for your Plecos. Offer them high-quality foods rich in vegetable matter, such as algae wafers, blanched vegetables (like zucchini or cucumber), and high-protein foods like live or frozen brine shrimp or bloodworms.

Courtship and Spawning

Male Bristlenose Plecos will initiate courtship rituals to attract the female. They may clean a potential spawning site and display their fins to impress the female. Once the female is interested, she will lay eggs on a surface, such as the chosen hiding spot.

Egg Care and Hatching

After spawning, the male Pleco takes on the responsibility of guarding and caring for the eggs. He will fan the eggs with his fins to provide oxygen and remove debris. The eggs usually hatch within a week, and the fry will cling to surfaces and feed off their yolk sacs initially.

Fry Care

Once the fry have hatched, you can provide them with specialized fry foods or finely crushed flakes to start their feeding journey. In this stage remember that keeping the tank clean and maintaining stable water conditions are absolutely important for their growth and survival.

Bristlenose Plecos Common Diseases 

Despite your best efforts to give your Bristlenose Plecos the best care, they may get sick at times and need the proper care to recover. So, here are some of the most common diseases of Bristlenose Plecos and what you can do to treat them.

Disease	Symptoms or Causes	Suggested Action or Treatment
Ich	White spots on the body and fins	Raise water temperature, use ich medication
Fin Rot	Ragged or frayed fins	Isolate affected fish, clean tank, use antibiotics or antifungal medication
Swim Bladder Disorder	Difficulty swimming, floating upside down	Feed sinking food, improve water quality
Dropsy	Swollen abdomen, raised scales	Isolate affected fish, use antibiotics or antifungal medication
Mouth Fungus	White or gray patches on the mouth	Isolate affected fish, clean tank, use antifungal medication
Columnaris	White patches on the body, fin erosion	Isolate affected fish, clean tank, use antibiotics or antifungal medication

How Many Bristlenose Plecos Can You Keep Together?

When keeping Bristlenose Plecos in a tank, it’s best to keep them together in groups of two to five. Although they usually prefer to be alone, they can coexist with other plecos as long as the tank is large enough.

However, male Bristlenose Plecos can be quite aggressive towards other males, so it’s best to keep only one male in the tank. Alternatively, you can opt to keep only female Bristlenose Plecos. 

To avoid any conflict between the males, it’s essential to maintain the right male-to-female ratio. Ideally, it’s always best to have one male for every two or three females in the tank.

And remember, keeping an eye on the behavior of your Bristlenose Plecos is important. Watch for signs of aggression, stress, or overcrowding. If any issues arise, it may be necessary to rearrange tank decor or separate aggressive individuals. 

Facts About Bristlenose Plecos

Bristlenose Plecos are one of the most interesting fish out there, and for great reasons! Here are some fascinating facts about them that’ll make you love them even more.

1. Bristlenose Plecos are one of the smallest types of catfish that live in South America, particularly in the Amazon River Basin.

2. Bristlenose Plecos get their name from the bristle-like parts that grow on the heads of males.

3. The Bristlenose Plecos’ bristles have actually have a purpose. They help them communicate, especially during the breeding season.

4. Bristlenose Plecos are excellent algae eaters and help keep aquariums clean by grazing on algae-covered surfaces.

5. They can breathe through their intestines and sometimes gulp air from the water’s surface. This helps them survive in areas with low oxygen levels.

6. Bristlenose Plecos come in different colors and patterns, like albino, calico, and longfin varieties.

Why Do Bristlenose Plecos Need Driftwood?

Driftwood is important for Bristlenose Plecos because it gives them a natural food source, helps with digestion, maintains their teeth, provides hiding spots, supports breeding, and recreates their natural habitat. Including driftwood in their aquarium improves their overall well-being.

Diet

Driftwood provides them with a natural food source. They can graze on the driftwood’s surface, consuming microorganisms and algae that grow on it, which gives them important nutrients.

Digestive Health

Driftwood contains a special substance called lignin, which helps with digestion. Bristlenose Plecos have bacteria in their stomachs that can break down lignin and use it for better digestion and nutrient absorption.

Teeth Maintenance

Bristlenose Plecos have teeth that keep growing. By nibbling on the rough surface of driftwood, they can naturally file down their teeth, preventing them from becoming too long.

Hiding and Safety

Driftwood provides hiding spots and shelter for Bristlenose Plecos. They can hide in the gaps and spaces within the driftwood, which makes them feel safer and less stressed.

Breeding Behavior

Driftwood is important for breeding. Female Plecos lay their sticky eggs on the surface of the driftwood, which provides a safe place for the eggs to stick to. The male Pleco can then guard the eggs.

Natural Environment

Driftwood mimics your Plecos’ natural habitat. In the wild, they live in rivers and streams where fallen trees and branches are common. Having driftwood in the tank recreates that natural environment, making them feel more at home.

What Is The Difference Between A Bristlenose Pleco And A Pleco?

A Bristlenose Pleco is a type of Pleco fish that has some special features. Pleco is a general name for a group of catfish, while Bristlenose Pleco is a specific kind called Ancistrus cirrhosus.

One difference between Bristlenose Plecos and other Plecos is their appearance. Male Bristlenose Plecos have bristle-like things on their heads, but other Plecos don’t have them or they’re not as noticeable. These bristles help them communicate, especially during mating.

And as for the size, Bristlenose Plecos are usually smaller than other Pleco species. They grow to around 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) in length, so they’re a good choice for smaller aquariums.

It’s really important to take note that when people talk about “Pleco,” they can mean different types of catfish. But when they mention “Bristlenose Pleco,” they’re talking about the specific Ancistrus cirrhosus species with its special features.

Remember that there are different Pleco types out there, each with its own traits and care needs. If you want to get a Pleco for your aquarium, make sure to learn about the specific type to provide them with the right care and environment.

FAQ

Do Bristlenose Plecos Clean Your Tank?

Plecos do not clean the tank completely. Although they eat algae, they can’t keep the tank entirely clean. In fact, they also produce waste and can’t eat their own or other fish’s waste. So, you shouldn’t rely on Plecos to  maintain a clean tank.

Do Bristlenose Plecos Eat Algae Off The Glass?

Although they’ll eat algae wherever found, Plecos can’t completely remove algae from tank surfaces, including glass. Even with a large tank and enough algae, there will always be a thin coating left. No animal can keep the glass spotless, so occasional cleaning is still necessary.

Will A Bristlenose Pleco Eat A Dead Fish?

Bristlenose Plecos mostly eat plants and algae. They don’t usually eat dead fish, but if there’s not enough food available, they might eat a dead fish as a last resort. It’s best to remove any dead fish quickly to keep the water clean.

What Vegetables Can Bristlenose Plecos Eat?

Bristlenose Plecos can eat various vegetables. Some good options are zucchini, cucumber, spinach, kale, and lettuce. It’s important to cook or soften the vegetables before feeding them to the Plecos. Remove any uneaten vegetables after a few hours to keep the water clean.

How Long Does It Take Bristlenose Plecos To Reach Full Size

The time it takes for Bristlenose Plecos to reach their full size can vary. On average, it takes them about 2 years to reach their adult size. However, factors such as genetics, diet, water conditions, and overall care can influence their growth rate. 

How Can You Tell The Age Of Your Bristlenose Pleco?

You can determine the age of your Pleco by observing its size. Bristlenose Plecos will reach their full size and stop growing after 2 years. So, if your fish is still growing, it means that it’s younger than 2 years old.

Conclusion

To make sure your Bristlenose Plecos stay healthy, it’s important to provide them the right care. This means giving them a suitable tank with clean water, feeding them the right food, and making sure they get along with other fish in the tank. All of these will help them live happily in your aquarium for a long time.