Can Common Pleco live with Otocinclus Catfish?
Caution — with care
Why
- Very different sizes (Common Pleco 24" vs Otocinclus Catfish 1.5") — these two need different tanks, and the smaller fish will be out-competed at feeding time.
Sweet spot: both do well at 72–79°F and pH 6–7.5 — aim there.
Side-by-side
| Common Pleco | Otocinclus Catfish | |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 72–82°F | 72–79°F |
| pH | 6–8 | 6–7.5 |
| Hardness (GH) | 5–20 dGH | 2–10 dGH |
| Adult size | 24" | 1.5" |
| Temperament | Peaceful | Peaceful |
| Min tank | 150 gal | 10 gal |
Together, plan on at least 150 gallons.
Where to buy
- Otocinclus Catfish: buy at The Shrimp Farm · The Shrimp Farm 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.
Design the whole tank, not just the stocking
Skapelab plans a complete, buildable planted aquarium around your fish — a hand-illustrated layout, the exact plants and hardscape, a placement map, and a full equipment and shopping list. Free.
Design a tank with Common Pleco, Otocinclus Catfish →Everything compatible with Common Pleco · …with Otocinclus Catfish