Can Cherry Barb live with Royal Pleco?
Caution — with care
Why
- Large size gap (Cherry Barb 2" vs Royal Pleco 17") — the bigger fish may eat the smaller one as they grow.
Sweet spot: both do well at 73–81°F and pH 6.5–7.5 — aim there.
Side-by-side
| Cherry Barb | Royal Pleco | |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 73–81°F | 73–82°F |
| pH | 6–7.5 | 6.5–7.5 |
| Hardness (GH) | 2–15 dGH | 4–12 dGH |
| Adult size | 2" | 17" |
| Temperament | Peaceful | Peaceful |
| Min tank | 15 gal | 120 gal |
Together, plan on at least 120 gallons.
How to make it work
- Add only full-grown adults — never juveniles, which will be eaten.
Where to buy
- Cherry Barb: buy at Flip Aquatics · Flip Aquatics live-arrival guarantee
- Royal 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 Royal Pleco