Can Guppies and Bristlenose Plecos Live Together?

Guppies and Bristlenose Plecos, side by side

	Guppy	Bristlenose pleco
Adult size	2 in5 cm	5.1 in13 cm
Smallest tank	10 gal38 L	30 gal114 L
Keep	3 or more	One or more
Temperature	72–82 °F22–28 °C	72–81 °F22–27 °C
pH	7–8.2	6–7.8
Temperament	Peaceful	Peaceful
Swims	Near the top	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	Guppy	Bristlenose pleco
5 gallon	Too small for both
10 gallon	Too small for both
20 gallon long	Too small for both
29 gallon	6	1
40 gallon breeder	5	2
55 gallon	11	2
75 gallon	14	3
125 gallon	17	6

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 guppies and bristlenose plecos live in the same tank?

Yes, usually. Guppies and bristlenose plecos like the same water: 72–81 °F (22–27 °C) and a pH of 7–7.8. Guppies spend their time near the top and bristlenose plecos on the bottom, so they stay out of each other's way.

What size tank do guppies and bristlenose plecos need together?

At least a 29 gallon tank, which carries about 6 guppies and 1 bristlenose pleco comfortably.

What temperature suits guppies and bristlenose plecos?

72–81 °F (22–27 °C) suits both.

More 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.