Fin's Fish Guide
The Mountain bristlenose (Ancistrus montanus) is a freshwater fish of the family Loricariidae that grows up to 9 cm.
Description
The Mountain bristlenose is an armoured catfish (Loricariidae) from fresh water of South America. The species grows to about 9 cm and has a flattened, bony-plated body and a broad sucker mouth; adult males bear branched, fleshy skin tentacles on the snout. It comes from fast-flowing streams in the Andean foothills of northern South America and has a yellow-brown body with dark markings. With its mouth it rasps algae, growth and wood. The fish is harmless to humans and is known from the aquarium trade.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Mountain bristlenose?
The Mountain bristlenose has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Mountain bristlenose live?
The Mountain bristlenose lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South America: Bolivia
How big does the Mountain bristlenose get?
The Mountain bristlenose grows to a maximum of about 9 cm.
Is the Mountain bristlenose dangerous to humans?
No, the Mountain bristlenose is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Ancistrus
More from the family Loricariidae
Want the complete picture on the Mountain bristlenose?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Mountain bristlenose is one of 12,519 species in the app.