Can Bristlenose Pleco live with Flash Pleco (L204)?
Caution — with care
Why
- Only a narrow water hardness overlap — keep both around 6–7.5 dGH.
- Large size gap (Bristlenose Pleco 5" vs Flash Pleco (L204) 20") — the bigger fish may eat the smaller one as they grow.
Sweet spot: both do well at 73–81°F and pH 6.5–7.5 — aim there.
Side-by-side
| Bristlenose Pleco | Flash Pleco (L204) | |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 73–81°F | 72–82°F |
| pH | 6–7.5 | 6.5–7.6 |
| Hardness (GH) | 2–15 dGH | 6–7.5 dGH |
| Adult size | 5" | 20" |
| Temperament | Peaceful | Peaceful |
| Min tank | 25 gal | 125 gal |
Together, plan on at least 125 gallons.
How to make it work
- Target the overlapping water-parameter range and acclimate slowly.
- Add only full-grown adults — never juveniles, which will be eaten.
Sort it with: GH remineraliser → Aquarium Co-Op
Where to buy
- Bristlenose Pleco: buy at Flip Aquatics · Flip Aquatics live-arrival guarantee
- Flash Pleco (L204): 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 Flash Pleco (L204)