Can Tiger Barb live with Zebra Pleco?
Caution — with care
Why
- Only a narrow water hardness overlap — keep both around 4–6 dGH.
- Tiger Barb is semi-aggressive and may bully the peaceful Zebra Pleco — give lots of space and cover.
Sweet spot: both do well at 79–82°F and pH 6–7.5 — aim there.
Side-by-side
| Tiger Barb | Zebra Pleco | |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 74–82°F | 79–86°F |
| pH | 6–8 | 6–7.5 |
| Hardness (GH) | 4–15 dGH | 2–6 dGH |
| Adult size | 2.75" | 3.5" |
| Temperament | Semi-aggressive | Peaceful |
| Min tank | 20 gal | 30 gal |
Together, plan on at least 30 gallons.
How to make it work
- Target the overlapping water-parameter range and acclimate slowly.
- Use a larger, well-decorated tank with sightline breaks, keep everyone well-fed, and add the calmer fish first.
Sort it with: GH remineraliser → Aquarium Co-Op
Where to buy
- Tiger Barb: buy at Flip Aquatics · Flip Aquatics live-arrival guarantee
- Zebra Pleco: 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 Tiger Barb · …with Zebra Pleco