Can Chocolate Gourami live with Royal Pleco?
Caution — with care
Why
- Very different sizes (Royal Pleco 17" vs Chocolate Gourami 2") — these two need different tanks, and the smaller fish will be out-competed at feeding time.
- Only a narrow pH overlap — keep both around 6.5–6.5.
- Only a narrow water hardness overlap — keep both around 4–5 dGH.
Sweet spot: both do well at 78–82°F and pH 6.5–6.5 — aim there.
Side-by-side
| Chocolate Gourami | Royal Pleco | |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 78–86°F | 73–82°F |
| pH | 4–6.5 | 6.5–7.5 |
| Hardness (GH) | 0–5 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
- Target the overlapping water-parameter range and acclimate slowly.
Sort it with: A larger tank · GH remineraliser
Design the whole tank, not just the stocking
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Design a tank with Chocolate Gourami, Royal Pleco →Everything compatible with Chocolate Gourami · …with Royal Pleco