Can Apistogramma uaupesi and Royal Pleco (L190) Live Together?

Both Apistogramma uaupesi and Royal Pleco (L190) are moderately assertive species with an aggression score of 5/10. Their matching temperaments mean neither fish is likely to dominate the other in a shared aquarium.

Apistogramma uaupesi and Royal Pleco (L190) both frequent the Bottom (Substrate) region of the setup. This overlap can increase competition for space, so providing ample room and cover is important to keep both species comfortable.

Additional behavioural considerations to keep in mind: Two territorial species may clash over territory, especially in smaller tanks.

Worth noting: Royal Pleco (L190) is nocturnal and will be most active after lights-out, naturally reducing daytime encounters.

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 24°C and 28°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 26.0°C) for optimal comfort.

The pH requirements of Apistogramma uaupesi (4–6) and Royal Pleco (L190) (6.5–7.5) do not overlap, making it impossible to satisfy both species simultaneously.

For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 5–5 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

To house Apistogramma uaupesi and Royal Pleco (L190) together, plan for an aquarium of at least 450 litres with a minimum length of 150 cm. This recommendation combines the stricter species minimums with a community-load allowance so the pairing has realistic long-term space and filtration headroom.

Providing a mix of open swimming space and sheltered areas with rocks, driftwood, or plants will keep both species comfortable and allow natural behaviour.

Specific environmental needs for this combination include: Sand (Sifters), Leaf Litter/Blackwater, Driftwood (Digestion/Hiding), Plants - Densely covered. Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.

Note a potential conflict in setup requirements: Royal Pleco (L190) is a plant destroyer, which conflicts with Apistogramma uaupesi's requirement for live plants. Compromise where possible or prioritise the more critical need.

Apistogramma uaupesi prefers Low (Still Water) flow while Royal Pleco (L190) needs High (River/Stream) flow. Consider positioning filter outlets and using baffles to create zones of different current intensity within the same tank.

Apistogramma uaupesi and Royal Pleco (L190) are the kind of pair that can look acceptable in a shop but become a maintenance problem at home. The main risk is not a single number in the chart; it is the way incompatible behavior, water needs, or pressure on space compounds over time once both fish are established in the same tank.