Can Candy Striped Pleco live with Chocolate Gourami?
Caution — with care
Why
- Only a narrow water hardness overlap — keep both around 4–5 dGH.
Sweet spot: both do well at 78–82°F and pH 6–6.5 — aim there.
Side-by-side
| Candy Striped Pleco | Chocolate Gourami | |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 73–82°F | 78–86°F |
| pH | 6–7.5 | 4–6.5 |
| Hardness (GH) | 4–12 dGH | 0–5 dGH |
| Adult size | 4" | 2" |
| Temperament | Peaceful | Peaceful |
| Min tank | 30 gal | 15 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: GH remineraliser → Aquarium Co-Op
Where to buy
- Candy Striped Pleco: buy at Flip Aquatics · Flip Aquatics live-arrival guarantee
- Chocolate Gourami: 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 Candy Striped Pleco · …with Chocolate Gourami