Can angelfish live with bristlenose plecos?

Yes, they make good tankmates. Good tankmates. Keep both at 76–80°F.

By Andy · Updated October 31, 2026 · Tankmate guide

Yes, they make good tankmates. Good tankmates. Keep both at 76–80°F.

Yes

Verdict

76–80°F

Shared temperature

30 gal

Smallest tank

The two fish side by side

Fish	Adult size	Temperature	Min. tank	Keep	Watch for
Angelfish	6 in	76–84°F	30 gal	Alone or as a pair	long fins, eats small fish
Bristlenose pleco	5 in	72–80°F	20 gal	Alone or as a pair	peaceful

Set the heater to about 78°F, in the middle of the range they share (76–80°F).
Use a tank of at least 30 gallons. Check the numbers with the stocking calculator.
Bristlenose plecos feed on the bottom, so drop in sinking pellets or wafers after the lights go out.
Add plenty of plants and cover so every fish can get out of sight.

For angelfish: Corydoras (bronze or peppered), Dwarf gourami, Molly, Platy, Swordtail, Kuhli loach
For bristlenose plecos: Corydoras (bronze or peppered), Amano shrimp, Black skirt tetra, Cardinal tetra, Cherry barb, Cherry shrimp

Want to check a whole tank? Pick up to 8 fish in the fish compatibility checker, which opens with this pair already filled in.

Planning a whole tank? Your First Aquarium includes ready-made stocking plans and care cards for 15 beginner fish. Get the guide for $12