Can Bristlenose Pleco live with Ember Tetra?
Caution — with care
Why
- Large size gap (Bristlenose Pleco 5" vs Ember Tetra 0.8") — the bigger fish may eat the smaller one as they grow.
Sweet spot: both do well at 73–81°F and pH 6–7 — aim there.
Side-by-side
| Bristlenose Pleco | Ember Tetra | |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 73–81°F | 73–82°F |
| pH | 6–7.5 | 5.5–7 |
| Hardness (GH) | 2–15 dGH | 1–8 dGH |
| Adult size | 5" | 0.8" |
| Temperament | Peaceful | Peaceful |
| Min tank | 25 gal | 10 gal |
Together, plan on at least 25 gallons.
How to make it work
- Add only full-grown adults — never juveniles, which will be eaten.
Where to buy
- Bristlenose Pleco: buy at Flip Aquatics · Flip Aquatics live-arrival guarantee
- Ember Tetra: buy at Flip Aquatics · Flip Aquatics live-arrival guarantee
Live-animal shipping: add a heat pack below 50°F, expect weather holds above 90°F, and schedule delivery for a moderate week when someone can receive it promptly.
Build a full tank around this stocking →Everything compatible with Bristlenose Pleco · …with Ember Tetra