Can Common Pleco live with Thick-lipped Gourami?
Caution — with care
Why
- Only a narrow water hardness overlap — keep both around 6–7.5 dGH.
- Large size gap (Common Pleco 24" vs Thick-lipped Gourami 3.5") — the bigger fish may eat the smaller one as they grow.
Sweet spot: both do well at 72–82°F and pH 6.5–7.6 — aim there.
Side-by-side
| Common Pleco | Thick-lipped Gourami | |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 72–82°F | 72–82°F |
| pH | 6–8 | 6.5–7.6 |
| Hardness (GH) | 5–20 dGH | 6–7.5 dGH |
| Adult size | 24" | 3.5" |
| Temperament | Peaceful | Peaceful |
| Min tank | 150 gal | 30 gal |
Together, plan on at least 150 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
- Common Pleco: buy at Flip Aquatics · Flip Aquatics live-arrival guarantee
- Thick-lipped Gourami: 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 Common Pleco · …with Thick-lipped Gourami