Can Endler's Livebearer live with Zebra Pleco?
Caution — with care
Why
- Large size gap (Endler's Livebearer 1.2" vs Zebra Pleco 3.5") — the bigger fish may eat the smaller one as they grow.
- No overlapping water hardness: Endler's Livebearer wants 10–20 dGH but Zebra Pleco wants 2–6 dGH.
Sweet spot: both do well at 79–82°F and pH 7–7.5 — aim there.
Side-by-side
| Endler's Livebearer | Zebra Pleco | |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 72–82°F | 79–86°F |
| pH | 7–8 | 6–7.5 |
| Hardness (GH) | 10–20 dGH | 2–6 dGH |
| Adult size | 1.2" | 3.5" |
| Temperament | Peaceful | Peaceful |
| Min tank | 10 gal | 30 gal |
Together, plan on at least 30 gallons.
How to make it work
- Add only full-grown adults — never juveniles, which will be eaten.
- Target the overlapping water-parameter range and acclimate slowly.
Sort it with: GH remineraliser → Aquarium Co-Op
Where to buy
- Endler's Livebearer: buy at Flip Aquatics · Flip Aquatics live-arrival guarantee
- Zebra Pleco: 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 Endler's Livebearer · …with Zebra Pleco