Tank Mate Guide

Best Tank Mates for Common Pleco

Common Plecos need tank mates that match their 72-82F temperature range, pH 6.5-7.8, adult size, and peaceful temperament. Common Plecos spend most of their time near the substrate and usually ignore mid-water fish. Avoid sharp gravel and very aggressive tank mates.

Common Pleco Care Snapshot

Tank

125+ gal

pH

6.5-7.8

Temp

72-82F

Size

17.7 in

Temperament

Peaceful

Care

Advanced

Swim Level

Bottom

Group

Solo or pair

Compatible Fish (2)

Clown Loach (Chromobotia macracanthus) in a freshwater aquarium

Clown Loach

Size 11.8 inpH 6-7.5

Discus (Symphysodon aequifasciatus) in a freshwater aquarium

Discus

Size 7.9 inpH 5.5-7

Use Caution (3)

Jack Dempsey (Rocio octofasciata) in a freshwater aquarium

Jack Dempsey

Size 9.8 inpH 6.5-8

Oscar (Astronotus ocellatus) in a freshwater aquarium

Oscar

Size 13.8 inpH 6-7.5

Severum (Heros efasciatus) in a freshwater aquarium

Severum

Size 9.8 inpH 6-7.5

Avoid These Tank Mates (74)

Tank Setup Tips

Start with at least 125 gallons, keep water stable, and stock schooling species in proper groups. If the tank mate list includes caution species, add more plants, caves, and open swimming room before introducing them.

For a specific pair, use the compatibility checker or visit generated pair pages from the cards above. Compatibility is strongest when the aquarium is mature and each species can eat without being chased.

Back to the Common Pleco care guide