Can Rubber Pleco (Rubbernose) live with Sparkling Gourami?
Caution — with care
Why
- Only a narrow temperature overlap — keep both around 76–77°F.
- Large size gap (Rubber Pleco (Rubbernose) 4.5" vs Sparkling Gourami 1.5") — the bigger fish may eat the smaller one as they grow.
Sweet spot: both do well at 76–77°F and pH 6.5–7.5 — aim there.
Side-by-side
| Rubber Pleco (Rubbernose) | Sparkling Gourami | |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 68–77°F | 76–82°F |
| pH | 6.5–7.5 | 6–7.5 |
| Hardness (GH) | 4–12 dGH | 2–12 dGH |
| Adult size | 4.5" | 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.
- Add only full-grown adults — never juveniles, which will be eaten.
Sort it with: An adjustable heater → Chewy
Where to buy
- Rubber Pleco (Rubbernose): buy at Flip Aquatics · Flip Aquatics live-arrival guarantee
- Sparkling Gourami: 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 Rubber Pleco (Rubbernose) · …with Sparkling Gourami