Can Blue Tang (Regal Tang) Live With Rubber Lip Pleco?
❌Not Compatible
Incompatible pH. Blue Tang (Regal Tang) needs 8.1–8.4, Rubber Lip Pleco needs 6.5–8.0.
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Parameter Comparison
| Parameter | Blue Tang (Regal Tang) | Rubber Lip Pleco | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 75–82°F | 72–80°F | 75–80°F ✓ |
| pH Range | 8.1–8.4 | 6.5–8 | No overlap ✗ |
| Temperament | semi-aggressive | peaceful | Monitor ⚠ |
| Max Size | 12" | 4.5" | Similar ✓ |
| Min Tank Size | 75 gal | 20 gal | 75 gal minimum together |
| Diet | Omnivore | Herbivore | — |
| Care Level | intermediate | beginner | — |
Species Profiles
Blue Tang (Regal Tang)
Paracanthurus hepatus
intermediatesemi-aggressive75+ gal
The blue tang — Dory from Finding Nemo — is one of the most recognizable marine fish with its vivid royal blue body, black palette marking, and yellow tail. While stunning, they grow large (up to 12 inches), are highly susceptible to ich, and need tanks of 75+ gallons. They are not beginner fish despite their popularity following the movies.
Full care guide →Rubber Lip Pleco
Chaetostoma formosae
beginnerpeaceful20+ gal
The Rubber Lip Pleco (Chaetostoma formosae) is a beginner-level freshwater fish growing to 4.5 inches. Peaceful temperament, minimum 20 gallon tank.
Full care guide →Other Compatible Tank Mates
For Blue Tang (Regal Tang):
For Rubber Lip Pleco:
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