Bronze Corydoras and Bristlenose Plecos, side by side
| Bronze corydoras | Bristlenose pleco | |
|---|---|---|
| Adult size | 2.6 in6.5 cm | 5.1 in13 cm |
| Smallest tank | 20 gal76 L | 30 gal114 L |
| Keep | 6 or more | One or more |
| Temperature | 70–81 °F21–27 °C | 72–81 °F22–27 °C |
| pH | 6–8 | 6–7.8 |
| Temperament | Peaceful | Peaceful |
| Swims | On the bottom | On the bottom |
What size tank do they need together?
Each row shows how many of each the tank carries comfortably when these are the only two kinds in it.
| Tank | Bronze corydoras | Bristlenose pleco |
|---|---|---|
| 5 gallon | Too small for both | |
| 10 gallon | Too small for both | |
| 20 gallon long | Too small for both | |
| 29 gallon | Too small for both | |
| 40 gallon breeder | 8 | 1 |
| 55 gallon | 9 | 2 |
| 75 gallon | 16 | 2 |
| 125 gallon | 23 | 4 |
Open this pair in the stocking calculator to add more fish or try your own tank.
How to make it work
- Add the calmer, smaller fish first, and the larger fish last.
- Use plants, wood or rocks to break up the view across the tank. Fish that cannot see each other all day fight less.
- Watch closely for the first week. Torn fins, hiding or a fish that stops eating mean it is not working.
- Keep a spare tank or a divider ready, so you can separate them the same day.
Questions and answers
Can bronze corydoras and bristlenose plecos live in the same tank?
Yes, usually. Bronze corydoras and bristlenose plecos like the same water: 72–81 °F (22–27 °C) and a pH of 6–7.8. Both spend their time on the bottom, so give them enough length to share.
What size tank do bronze corydoras and bristlenose plecos need together?
At least a 40 gallon breeder tank, which carries about 8 bronze corydoras and 1 bristlenose pleco comfortably.
What temperature suits bronze corydoras and bristlenose plecos?
72–81 °F (22–27 °C) suits both.
More pairs
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- All pairs
Based on each species' adult size, water range and temperament (Seriously Fish, FishBase) and the rules of our stocking calculator. Individual fish differ: this is a guide, not a guarantee.