Can Chao Phraya Giant Catfish (Paroon Shark) and Gold Nugget Pleco (L018) Live Together?

Chao Phraya Giant Catfish (Paroon Shark) is a semi-aggressive species (8/10), while Gold Nugget Pleco (L018) is moderately assertive (6/10). This modest difference means Chao Phraya Giant Catfish (Paroon Shark) may occasionally assert dominance over Gold Nugget Pleco (L018).

Chao Phraya Giant Catfish (Paroon Shark) and Gold Nugget Pleco (L018) 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: Hyperactive swimmers can stress shy, slow-moving species through constant motion. Aggressive eaters may outcompete shy fish for food, leading to malnutrition.

Worth noting: Chao Phraya Giant Catfish (Paroon Shark) 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 Chao Phraya Giant Catfish (Paroon Shark) and Gold Nugget Pleco (L018) 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 27°C and 28°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 27.5°C) for optimal comfort.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 6.5 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 2–12 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

To house Chao Phraya Giant Catfish (Paroon Shark) and Gold Nugget Pleco (L018) together, plan for an aquarium of at least 15000 litres with a minimum length of 600 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: Smooth Gravel (Sensitive Barbels), Driftwood (Digestion/Hiding), Established Algae (Otocinclus). 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.

Feeding time deserves special attention with this pairing. Chao Phraya Giant Catfish (Paroon Shark) is an aggressive eater that may prevent Gold Nugget Pleco (L018) from getting enough food.

Because Chao Phraya Giant Catfish (Paroon Shark) is a fast, competitive feeder, consider using sinking pellets or feeding at opposite ends of the setup to ensure Gold Nugget Pleco (L018) receives an adequate share.