Can convict cichlids live with clown plecos?
Verdict
No
No. Convict cichlids and clown plecos should not share a tank. Convict cichlids are aggressive and will bully peaceful clown plecos.
What to watch
- Deal breakerConvict cichlids are aggressive and will bully peaceful clown plecos.
What works
- Both are fine at 74–82°F.
- pH 6.6–7.5 suits both.
Water side by side
Size to scale
Care at a glance
| Convict cichlid | Clown pleco | |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 74–82 °F | 73–82 °F |
| pH | 6.6–7.8 | 6.5–7.5 |
| Adult size | 5.0 in | 3.5 in |
| Minimum tank | 30 gal | 20 gal |
| Temperament | Aggressive | Peaceful |
| Swims at | Bottom | Bottom |
| Group | Alone or in pairs | Alone or in pairs |
| Diet | Omnivore | Herbivore |
Better tank mates for convict cichlids
All convict cichlid tank mates
Better tank mates for clown plecos
Questions
Can convict cichlids live with clown plecos?
No. Convict cichlids and clown plecos should not share a tank. Convict cichlids are aggressive and will bully peaceful clown plecos.
What temperature suits both convict cichlids and clown plecos?
74–82 °F. Convict cichlids need 74–82 °F, clown plecos need 73–82 °F.
What size tank do convict cichlids and clown plecos need together?
At least 30 gal, set by the convict cichlid. Add space for each extra fish.












