Can Congo Tetra Live With Rubber Lip Pleco?
Congo Tetra and Rubber Lip Pleco are compatible. Temperature overlap 73–80°F. Both peaceful.
Conditions: Minimum 30 gallon tank.
Parameter Comparison
| Parameter | Congo Tetra | Rubber Lip Pleco | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 73–82°F | 72–80°F | 73–80°F ✓ |
| pH Range | 6–7.5 | 6.5–8 | 6.5–7.5 ✓ |
| Temperament | peaceful | peaceful | Both peaceful ✓ |
| Max Size | 3.5" | 4.5" | Similar ✓ |
| Min Tank Size | 30 gal | 20 gal | 30 gal minimum together |
| Diet | Omnivore | Herbivore | — |
| Care Level | intermediate | beginner | — |
Tank Requirements for Congo Tetra + Rubber Lip Pleco
To keep Congo Tetra and Rubber Lip Pleco together, you need at minimum a 30 gallon tank. Congo Tetra should be kept in a school of 6+. Provide adequate filtration, stable temperature with a heater, and hiding spots to reduce stress.
Species Profiles
Congo Tetra
Phenacogrammus interruptus
Congo tetras are the showstoppers of the tetra family. Males develop spectacular flowing fins with an iridescent rainbow sheen that shifts from blue to gold to green under aquarium lighting. They are larger than most tetras (up to 3.5 inches) and need a spacious, well-planted tank to display their full beauty. Peaceful but shy — they thrive with calm tank mates.
Full care guide →Rubber Lip Pleco
Chaetostoma formosae
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 →