Can Candy Striped Pleco live with Endler's Livebearer?
Caution — with care
Why
- Only a narrow water hardness overlap — keep both around 10–12 dGH.
- Large size gap (Candy Striped Pleco 4" vs Endler's Livebearer 1.2") — the bigger fish may eat the smaller one as they grow.
Sweet spot: both do well at 73–82°F and pH 7–7.5 — aim there.
Side-by-side
| Candy Striped Pleco | Endler's Livebearer | |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 73–82°F | 72–82°F |
| pH | 6–7.5 | 7–8 |
| Hardness (GH) | 4–12 dGH | 10–20 dGH |
| Adult size | 4" | 1.2" |
| Temperament | Peaceful | Peaceful |
| Min tank | 30 gal | 10 gal |
Together, plan on at least 30 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
- Candy Striped Pleco: buy at Flip Aquatics · Flip Aquatics live-arrival guarantee
- Endler's Livebearer: 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 Endler's Livebearer