Can Bristlenose Pleco Live With Jack Dempsey?
✅Compatible
Bristlenose Pleco and Jack Dempsey Cichlid are compatible. Temperature overlap 73–81°F.
Conditions: Minimum 55 gallon tank.
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Parameter Comparison
| Parameter | Bristlenose Pleco | Jack Dempsey | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 73–81°F | 72–86°F | 73–81°F ✓ |
| pH Range | 6–7.5 | 6.5–7.5 | 6.5–7.5 ✓ |
| Temperament | peaceful | aggressive | Aggression risk ✗ |
| Max Size | 5.9" | 9.8" | Similar ✓ |
| Min Tank Size | 20 gal | 53 gal | 55 gal minimum together |
| Diet | Herbivore | Omnivore | — |
| Care Level | beginner | intermediate | — |
Tank Requirements for Bristlenose Pleco + Jack Dempsey
To keep Bristlenose Pleco and Jack Dempsey together, you need at minimum a 55 gallon tank. Jack Dempsey should be kept in a school of 6+. Provide adequate filtration, stable temperature with a heater, and hiding spots to reduce stress.
Species Profiles
Bristlenose Pleco
Ancistrus spp.
beginnerpeaceful20+ gal
The Bristlenose Pleco (Ancistrus spp.) is a beginner freshwater species known for its brown-gray, light spots coloration. Best algae-eating pleco for most tanks. Bottom and Surfaces.
Full care guide →Jack Dempsey
Rocio octofasciata
intermediateaggressive53+ gal
The Jack Dempsey (Rocio octofasciata) is a intermediate freshwater species known for its dark brown-purple, blue-green spots coloration. Named after the boxer. Mid to Bottom.
Full care guide →Other Compatible Tank Mates
For Bristlenose Pleco:
For Jack Dempsey:
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