Can Ember Tetra live with Colombian Zebra Pleco?
Caution — with care
Why
- Very different sizes (Colombian Zebra Pleco 3.5" vs Ember Tetra 0.8") — these two need different tanks, and the smaller fish will be out-competed at feeding time.
- Only a narrow water hardness overlap — keep both around 6–7.5 dGH.
Sweet spot: both do well at 77–82°F and pH 6.5–7 — aim there.
Side-by-side
| Ember Tetra | Colombian Zebra Pleco | |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 73–82°F | 77–82°F |
| pH | 5.5–7 | 6.5–7.6 |
| Hardness (GH) | 1–8 dGH | 6–7.5 dGH |
| Adult size | 0.8" | 3.5" |
| Temperament | Peaceful | Peaceful |
| Min tank | 10 gal | 30 gal |
Together, plan on at least 30 gallons.
How to make it work
- Target the overlapping water-parameter range and acclimate slowly.
Sort it with: A larger tank · GH remineraliser
Where to buy
- Ember Tetra: 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 Ember Tetra, Colombian Zebra Pleco →Everything compatible with Ember Tetra · …with Colombian Zebra Pleco