Can Cardinal Tetra live with Clown Pleco?
Caution — with care
Why
- Only a narrow water hardness overlap — keep both around 4–6 dGH.
Sweet spot: both do well at 73–81°F and pH 6–7 — aim there.
Side-by-side
| Cardinal Tetra | Clown Pleco | |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 73–81°F | 73–82°F |
| pH | 5–7 | 6–7.5 |
| Hardness (GH) | 1–6 dGH | 4–12 dGH |
| Adult size | 2" | 3.5" |
| Temperament | Peaceful | Peaceful |
| Min tank | 15 gal | 30 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
- Cardinal Tetra: buy at Flip Aquatics · Flip Aquatics live-arrival guarantee
- Clown Pleco: 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 Cardinal Tetra · …with Clown Pleco