Can Butterfly Pleco (L168) and Emperor Snakehead Live Together?

Butterfly Pleco (L168) is a peaceful species (2/10), while Emperor Snakehead is highly aggressive (9/10). This notable difference means Emperor Snakehead may occasionally assert dominance over Butterfly Pleco (L168).

Large aggression gap (7 points) between Butterfly Pleco (L168) and Emperor Snakehead increases stress risk for the more peaceful fish.

In terms of spatial distribution, Butterfly Pleco (L168) prefers the Bottom (Substrate) zone, whereas Emperor Snakehead 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: Aggressive fish may bully and stress shy, slow-moving species. Two territorial species may clash over territory, especially in smaller tanks.

Worth noting: Butterfly Pleco (L168) is nocturnal and will be most active after lights-out, naturally reducing daytime encounters. Also, Emperor Snakehead 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 Butterfly Pleco (L168) and Emperor Snakehead 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 25°C and 28°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 26.5°C) for optimal comfort.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 5.5 and 7. Maintaining a stable value within this band is more important than hitting an exact number.

For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 2–10 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

To house Butterfly Pleco (L168) and Emperor Snakehead together, plan for an aquarium of at least 800 litres with a minimum length of 200 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), Smooth Gravel (Sensitive Barbels), Plants - Floating, Leaf Litter/Blackwater. 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. Butterfly Pleco (L168) and Emperor Snakehead 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.