Can Cherry Barb live with Zebra Pleco?
Caution — with care
Why
- Only a narrow water hardness overlap — keep both around 6–7 dGH.
Sweet spot: both do well at 79–81°F and pH 6.5–7.5 — aim there.
Side-by-side
| Cherry Barb | Zebra Pleco | |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 73–81°F | 79–88°F |
| pH | 6–7.5 | 6.5–7.6 |
| Hardness (GH) | 2–15 dGH | 6–7 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
- Cherry Barb: buy at Flip Aquatics · Flip Aquatics live-arrival guarantee
- Zebra 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 Cherry Barb · …with Zebra Pleco