Can Candy Striped Pleco live with Chili Rasbora?
Caution — with care
Why
- Very different sizes (Candy Striped Pleco 4" vs Chili Rasbora 0.7") — these two need different tanks, and the smaller fish will be out-competed at feeding time.
- Only a narrow water hardness overlap — keep both around 4–6 dGH.
Sweet spot: both do well at 75–82°F and pH 6–7 — aim there.
Side-by-side
| Candy Striped Pleco | Chili Rasbora | |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 73–82°F | 75–82°F |
| pH | 6–7.5 | 4–7 |
| Hardness (GH) | 4–12 dGH | 1–6 dGH |
| Adult size | 4" | 0.7" |
| Temperament | Peaceful | Peaceful |
| Min tank | 30 gal | 5 gal |
Together, plan on at least 30 gallons.
How to make it work
- Target the overlapping water-parameter range and acclimate slowly.
Sort it with: A larger tank · GH remineraliser
Where to buy
- Chili Rasbora: buy at The Shrimp Farm · The Shrimp Farm 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.
Design the whole tank, not just the stocking
Skapelab plans a complete, buildable planted aquarium around your fish — a hand-illustrated layout, the exact plants and hardscape, a placement map, and a full equipment and shopping list. Free.
Design a tank with Candy Striped Pleco, Chili Rasbora →Everything compatible with Candy Striped Pleco · …with Chili Rasbora