Can bristlenose plecos and kuhli loaches live together?
Yes
Bristlenose plecos and kuhli loaches can share a tank. Their water needs overlap and neither is known to bother the other.
Why
- Their temperature and pH ranges overlap comfortably, and neither is known to nip, chase or eat the other.
What each one needs
| Bristlenose pleco | Kuhli loach | Both | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 73–81°F (23–27°C) | 75–86°F (24–30°C) | 75–81°F (24–27°C) |
| pH | 6.5–7.5 | 5.5–7.0 | 6.5–7.0 |
| Minimum tank | 29 gal (110 L) | 20 gal (76 L) | 29 gal (110 L) |
| Keep at least | 1 | 5 | |
| Adult size | 5 in (12.7 cm) | 4 in (10.2 cm) |
The smallest tank for both
A 29 gallons (110 L) tank holds 1 bristlenose pleco and 5 kuhli loaches at about 43% of its stocking limit, which leaves room for more.