Fancy Goldfish and Bristlenose Plecos, side by side
| Fancy goldfish | Bristlenose pleco | |
|---|---|---|
| Adult size | 5.9 in15 cm | 5.1 in13 cm |
| Smallest tank | 30 gal114 L | 30 gal114 L |
| Keep | One or more | One or more |
| Temperature | 64–73 °F18–23 °C | 72–81 °F22–27 °C |
| pH | 7–8.4 | 6–7.8 |
| Temperament | Peaceful | Peaceful |
| Swims | At every level | On the bottom |
Why it does not work
Goldfish do best with other fancy goldfish.
Better tank mates for fancy goldfish
Goldfish do best with other fancy goldfish. They need cooler water than tropical fish, they eat anything that fits in their mouth, and slow fancies lose the race for food against faster fish.
Better tank mates for bristlenose plecos
Questions and answers
Can fancy goldfish and bristlenose plecos live in the same tank?
No, not a good match. Goldfish do best with other fancy goldfish.
What temperature suits fancy goldfish and bristlenose plecos?
72–73 °F (22–23 °C) suits both. That is a narrow range, so a reliable heater and thermometer matter.
More pairs
- Fancy goldfish and bettas
- Fancy goldfish and guppies
- Fancy goldfish and neon tetras
- Fancy goldfish and angelfish
- Fancy goldfish and bronze corydoras
- Bristlenose plecos and mollies
- Bristlenose plecos and platies
- Bristlenose plecos and tiger barbs
- Bristlenose plecos and dwarf gouramis
- 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.