What size tank does a common pleco need?
At least 150 gallons (570 liters). The smallest standard tank that works is the 150 gallon. A bigger tank is always easier to keep stable. We give the size for an adult fish, because the small fish in the shop will grow. Scientific name: Pterygoplichthys pardalis.
How many common plecos in each tank size?
This is how many each standard tank carries comfortably if common plecos are the only fish in it. Share the tank with other species and the number goes down.
Keep one common pleco per tank, whatever the size. None of the common tank sizes up to 125 gallons is big enough for an adult.
Check common plecos against your own tank and other fish
Good to know
- Sold tiny, grows to 40 cm or more. Not a fish for an ordinary home tank.
Tank mates for common plecos
These animals like the same water, are a safe size, and have a temper that fits. It is a match on paper: always watch new tankmates for the first week.
Poor matches
- Fancy goldfish: Goldfish do best with other fancy goldfish.
- Oscar: Oscar is aggressive and will bully or kill peaceful fish such as common pleco.
Questions and answers
What size tank does a common pleco need?
At least 150 gallons (570 liters). The smallest standard tank that works is the 150 gallon. A bigger tank is always easier to keep stable.
How many common plecos should be kept together?
One is fine. A common pleco does not need company, though a large enough tank can hold more than one.
Can common plecos live in a 10 gallon tank?
No. Common pleco needs at least 150 gallons (570 liters), and grows to 16 in (40 cm), far too long for a 20 inch tank.
What temperature do common plecos need?
72–82 °F (22–28 °C), with a pH of 6–8. In most homes that means a heater.
Can common plecos live with a betta?
Usually, yes, in a tank of 150 gallons (570 liters) or more. They like the same water: 75–82 °F (24–28 °C). Every betta has its own temper, so watch closely for the first week and have a spare tank ready.
More fish
Adult size, tank size and water ranges follow the mainstream care consensus (Seriously Fish species profiles and FishBase maximum lengths). Where sources differ we use the more cautious figure. Stocking numbers come from our stocking calculator.