Can Common Pleco live with Licorice Gourami?
Caution — with care
Why
- No overlapping water hardness: Common Pleco wants 5–20 dGH but Licorice Gourami wants 0–4 dGH.
- Very different sizes (Common Pleco 24" vs Licorice Gourami 1.4") — these two need different tanks, and the smaller fish will be out-competed at feeding time.
- Only a narrow pH overlap — keep both around 6–6.
Sweet spot: both do well at 73–82°F and pH 6–6 — aim there.
Side-by-side
| Common Pleco | Licorice Gourami | |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 72–82°F | 73–82°F |
| pH | 6–8 | 4–6 |
| Hardness (GH) | 5–20 dGH | 0–4 dGH |
| Adult size | 24" | 1.4" |
| Temperament | Peaceful | Peaceful |
| Min tank | 150 gal | 5 gal |
Together, plan on at least 150 gallons.
How to make it work
- Target the overlapping water-parameter range and acclimate slowly.
Sort it with: GH remineraliser · A larger tank
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Design a tank with Common Pleco, Licorice Gourami →Everything compatible with Common Pleco · …with Licorice Gourami