Can bolivian rams live with pencilfish?

Verdict
Yes

Yes. Bolivian rams and pencilfish get along in the same tank. Both are fine at 75–79°F. Plan on at least 20 gal.

Bolivian ramBolivian ram72–79°F · pH 6–7.5 PencilfishPencilfish75–82°F · pH 5–7.5

Why it works

Water side by side

55°60°65°70°75°80°85°90°Both: 75–79°Bolivian ram 72–79°Pencilfish 75–82°
The green band is the temperature range both can live in.
456789Both: 6–7.5Bolivian ram 6–7.5Pencilfish 5–7.5
The green band is the pH both tolerate.

Size to scale

Bolivian ram · 3 inPencilfish · 2 in0"1"2"3"4"5"6"
Adult length in an aquarium. A fish can swallow anything that fits in its mouth, roughly a third to half its own length for predators.

Care at a glance

Bolivian ramPencilfish
Temperature72–79 °F75–82 °F
pH6–7.55–7.5
Adult size3.0 in2.0 in
Minimum tank20 gal15 gal
TemperamentPeacefulPeaceful
Swims atBottomMiddle
GroupAlone or in pairsGroups of 6+
DietOmnivoreOmnivore

Better tank mates for bolivian rams

All bolivian ram tank mates

Better tank mates for pencilfish

All pencilfish tank mates

Questions

Can bolivian rams live with pencilfish?

Yes. Bolivian rams and pencilfish get along in the same tank. Both are fine at 75–79°F. Plan on at least 20 gal.

What temperature suits both bolivian rams and pencilfish?

75–79 °F. Bolivian rams need 72–79 °F, pencilfish need 75–82 °F.

What size tank do bolivian rams and pencilfish need together?

At least 20 gal, set by the bolivian ram. Add space for each extra fish.