Can Royal Pleco live with Rubber Pleco (Rubbernose)?
Caution — with care
Why
- Large size gap (Royal Pleco 17" vs Rubber Pleco (Rubbernose) 4.5") — the bigger fish may eat the smaller one as they grow.
Sweet spot: both do well at 73–77°F and pH 6.5–7.5 — aim there.
Side-by-side
| Royal Pleco | Rubber Pleco (Rubbernose) | |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 73–82°F | 68–77°F |
| pH | 6.5–7.5 | 6.5–7.5 |
| Hardness (GH) | 4–12 dGH | 4–12 dGH |
| Adult size | 17" | 4.5" |
| Temperament | Peaceful | Peaceful |
| Min tank | 120 gal | 30 gal |
Together, plan on at least 120 gallons.
How to make it work
- Add only full-grown adults — never juveniles, which will be eaten.
Where to buy
- Royal Pleco: buy at Flip Aquatics · Flip Aquatics live-arrival guarantee
- Rubber Pleco (Rubbernose): 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 Royal Pleco · …with Rubber Pleco (Rubbernose)