The inspiration for my foray into the world of planted aquaria: an unidentified Ancistrus sp. - trade name, "bristlenose pleco".
Helpfully displaying his dorsal fin:
The Ancistrus genus of pleco is probably the most popular group among experienced hobbists who are looking for a workhorse algae-eater that doesn't get too big - unlike the monster common pleco, these guys get to be about 6 inches rather than the tank-busting 18+" lengths that common plecos can reach. Also unlike common plecos, bristlenoses will continue to eat algae throughout their lives. I have a "common bristlenose" variety in my cichlid tank, and he's held his own against the aggressive cichlids very well. I'm sure the spines help a lot.
If you've only seen the plecos at the chain stores, you're missing a lot! There are many varieties of pleco much more beautiful than these, but aren't they cute? Much cuter than those furry rodents people keep as pets. But then, YMMV...
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