Can goldfish live with plecos?
Verdict
No
No. Goldfish and plecos should not share a tank. Goldfish are coldwater animals (60–74°F); plecos need 72–86°F. They overlap only at 72–74°F, the edge of both ranges.
What to watch
- Deal breakerGoldfish are coldwater animals (60–74°F); plecos need 72–86°F. They overlap only at 72–74°F, the edge of both ranges.
- Watch outPlecos sometimes latch on to slow, flat fish like goldfish and rasp their slime coat.
What works
- pH 7–7.5 suits both.
Water side by side
Size to scale
Care at a glance
| Goldfish | Common pleco | |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 60–74 °F | 72–86 °F |
| pH | 7–8 | 6.5–7.5 |
| Adult size | 10.0 in | 15.0 in |
| Minimum tank | 40 gal | 125 gal |
| Temperament | Peaceful | Peaceful |
| Swims at | All levels | Bottom |
| Group | Alone or in pairs | Alone or in pairs |
| Diet | Omnivore | Herbivore |
Better tank mates for goldfish
Better tank mates for plecos
Questions
Can goldfish live with plecos?
No. Goldfish and plecos should not share a tank. Goldfish are coldwater animals (60–74°F); plecos need 72–86°F. They overlap only at 72–74°F, the edge of both ranges.
What temperature suits both goldfish and plecos?
72–74 °F. Goldfish need 60–74 °F, plecos need 72–86 °F.
What size tank do goldfish and plecos need together?
At least 125 gal, set by the common pleco. Add space for each extra fish.