Can Longfin Bristlenose Pleco live with Painted Fire Red Shrimp?
Caution — with care
Why
- Only a narrow water hardness overlap — keep both around 6.5–7.5 dGH.
Sweet spot: both do well at 72–75°F and pH 6.5–7.6 — aim there.
Side-by-side
| Longfin Bristlenose Pleco | Painted Fire Red Shrimp | |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 72–82°F | 65–75°F |
| pH | 6.5–7.6 | 6.5–7.8 |
| Hardness (GH) | 6.5–7.5 dGH | 6–15 dGH |
| Adult size | 5" | 1.5" |
| 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.
Sort it with: GH remineraliser → Aquarium Co-Op
Where to buy
- Longfin Bristlenose Pleco: buy at Flip Aquatics · Flip Aquatics live-arrival guarantee
- Painted Fire Red 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 Longfin Bristlenose Pleco · …with Painted Fire Red Shrimp