Can Colombian Zebra Pleco live with Chocolate Shrimp?
Caution — with care
Why
- Only a narrow pH overlap — keep both around 7.5–7.6.
- No overlapping water hardness: Colombian Zebra Pleco wants 6–7.5 dGH but Chocolate Shrimp wants 8–18 dGH.
Sweet spot: both do well at 77–80°F and pH 7.5–7.6 — aim there.
Side-by-side
| Colombian Zebra Pleco | Chocolate Shrimp | |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 77–82°F | 74–80°F |
| pH | 6.5–7.6 | 7.5–8.5 |
| Hardness (GH) | 6–7.5 dGH | 8–18 dGH |
| Adult size | 3.5" | 1" |
| Temperament | Peaceful | Peaceful |
| Min tank | 30 gal | 10 gal |
Together, plan on at least 30 gallons.
How to make it work
- Target the overlapping water-parameter range and acclimate slowly.
- Keep a large, established shrimp colony in a heavily planted tank with moss and cover so enough survive to breed.
Sort it with: GH remineraliser → Aquarium Co-Op
Where to buy
- Colombian Zebra Pleco: buy at Flip Aquatics · Flip Aquatics live-arrival guarantee
- Chocolate Shrimp: 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 Colombian Zebra Pleco · …with Chocolate Shrimp