Neon Tetras and Bristlenose Plecos, side by side
| Neon tetra | Bristlenose pleco | |
|---|---|---|
| Adult size | 1.4 in3.5 cm | 5.1 in13 cm |
| Smallest tank | 10 gal38 L | 30 gal114 L |
| Keep | 6 or more | One or more |
| Temperature | 70–79 °F21–26 °C | 72–81 °F22–27 °C |
| pH | 5.5–7.5 | 6–7.8 |
| Temperament | Peaceful | Peaceful |
| Swims | In the middle | 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 | Neon tetra | Bristlenose pleco |
|---|---|---|
| 5 gallon | Too small for both | |
| 10 gallon | Too small for both | |
| 20 gallon long | Too small for both | |
| 29 gallon | 11 | 1 |
| 40 gallon breeder | 9 | 2 |
| 55 gallon | 21 | 2 |
| 75 gallon | 25 | 3 |
| 125 gallon | 30 | 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 neon tetras and bristlenose plecos live in the same tank?
Yes, usually. Neon tetras and bristlenose plecos like the same water: 72–79 °F (22–26 °C) and a pH of 6–7.5. Neon tetras spend their time in the middle and bristlenose plecos on the bottom, so they stay out of each other's way.
What size tank do neon tetras and bristlenose plecos need together?
At least a 29 gallon tank, which carries about 11 neon tetras and 1 bristlenose pleco comfortably.
What temperature suits neon tetras and bristlenose plecos?
72–79 °F (22–26 °C) suits both.
More pairs
- Neon tetras and bettas
- Neon tetras and guppies
- Neon tetras and fancy goldfish
- Neon tetras and angelfish
- Neon tetras 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.