Can Adonis Pleco and Peacock Bass Temensis Live Together?

Adonis Pleco is a semi-aggressive species (8/10), while Peacock Bass Temensis is semi-aggressive (7/10). This modest difference means Adonis Pleco may occasionally assert dominance over Peacock Bass Temensis.

Both Adonis Pleco and Peacock Bass Temensis are highly aggressive, increasing the risk of violent confrontations.

In terms of spatial distribution, Adonis Pleco prefers the Bottom (Substrate) zone, whereas Peacock Bass Temensis occupies the Middle (Open Water) and Top (Surface) zones. Because they use different levels of the water column, territorial disputes are less likely and the tank will appear more balanced.

Additional behavioural considerations to keep in mind: Two aggressive species housed together increases risk of fighting.

Worth noting: Adonis Pleco is nocturnal and will be most active after lights-out, naturally reducing daytime encounters. Also, Peacock Bass Temensis is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential.

To improve the chances of a peaceful coexistence in this community tank: Provide a significantly larger tank (at least 50% more volume than the minimum) to allow both Adonis Pleco and Peacock Bass Temensis to establish separate territories. Add plenty of line-of-sight breaks using driftwood, rocks, and dense planting to reduce territorial confrontations. A larger aquarium with ample hiding spots can help diffuse aggression and give the less dominant fish space to retreat.

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 26°C and 30°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 28.0°C) for optimal comfort.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 6 and 7.5. Maintaining a stable value within this band is more important than hitting an exact number.

For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 2–15 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

To house Adonis Pleco and Peacock Bass Temensis together, plan for an aquarium of at least 3000 litres with a minimum length of 300 cm. This recommendation combines the stricter species minimums with a community-load allowance so the pairing has realistic long-term space and filtration headroom.

Because this pairing requires extra vigilance, include plenty of hiding spots — caves, driftwood, and dense plant clusters — so the less dominant fish can retreat when needed.

Specific environmental needs for this combination include: Driftwood (Digestion/Hiding), Sand (Sifters), Smooth Gravel (Sensitive Barbels). Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.

Both species do well with high (river/stream) water movement, so a standard filtration setup rated for the tank volume should suffice.

This pairing usually fails when the tank is treated like a standard mixed community and the caution flags are ignored. Adonis Pleco and Peacock Bass Temensis need extra room, more cover, and closer observation during the first few weeks so small aggression, feeding, or territory issues do not snowball into a long-term problem.