Can Kribensis live with Royal Pleco?
Caution — with care
Why
- Very different sizes (Royal Pleco 17" vs Kribensis 3.5") — these two need different tanks, and the smaller fish will be out-competed at feeding time.
- Kribensis is semi-aggressive — give the peaceful Royal Pleco plenty of space, cover and broken sight lines.
Sweet spot: both do well at 75–82°F and pH 6.5–7.5 — aim there.
Side-by-side
| Kribensis | Royal Pleco | |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 75–82°F | 73–82°F |
| pH | 6–7.8 | 6.5–7.5 |
| Hardness (GH) | 5–19 dGH | 4–12 dGH |
| Adult size | 3.5" | 17" |
| Temperament | Semi-aggressive | Peaceful |
| Min tank | 20 gal | 120 gal |
Together, plan on at least 120 gallons.
How to make it work
- Use a larger, well-decorated tank with sightline breaks, keep everyone well-fed, and add the calmer fish first.
Sort it with: A larger tank · GH remineraliser
Design the whole tank, not just the stocking
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Design a tank with Kribensis, Royal Pleco →Everything compatible with Kribensis · …with Royal Pleco