Can Duboisi Cichlid (Tropheus) and Royal Pleco (L190) Live Together?
Duboisi Cichlid (Tropheus) and Royal Pleco (L190) are not recommended as tank mates due to conflicting pH requirements. Housing these species together is likely to result in stress, health problems, or direct harm to one or both fish.
At a Glance
Behaviour & Temperament
Duboisi Cichlid (Tropheus) is a semi-aggressive species (8/10), while Royal Pleco (L190) is moderately assertive (5/10). This modest difference means Duboisi Cichlid (Tropheus) may occasionally assert dominance over Royal Pleco (L190).
Duboisi Cichlid (Tropheus) 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.
Water Parameters
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 Duboisi Cichlid (Tropheus) (8–9) 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 10–15 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range. An aquarium test kit is recommended for monitoring.
Tank Setup
To house Duboisi Cichlid (Tropheus) and Royal Pleco (L190) together, plan for an aquarium of at least 540 litres with a minimum length of 150 cm. This accounts for the larger species' space requirements with an additional 20 % buffer to reduce territorial tension.
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), Established Algae (Otocinclus), Smooth Gravel (Sensitive Barbels), Driftwood (Digestion/Hiding). Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.
Both species do well with moderate (standard) water movement, so a standard filtration setup rated for the tank volume should suffice.
Find the right tank equipment
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can Duboisi Cichlid (Tropheus) and Royal Pleco (L190) live together?▾
No. This combination is not recommended. Key incompatibilities — such as critical behavioural conflicts — make cohabitation unsafe.
What size tank do Duboisi Cichlid (Tropheus) and Royal Pleco (L190) need?▾
A minimum of 540 litres (tank length at least 150 cm) is recommended. This provides enough space for both species to establish their own areas and reduces the likelihood of territorial disputes.
What water temperature is best for Duboisi Cichlid (Tropheus) and Royal Pleco (L190) together?▾
Keep the aquarium between 24°C and 28°C. A target of around 26.0°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.
Are Duboisi Cichlid (Tropheus) or Royal Pleco (L190) aggressive?▾
Duboisi Cichlid (Tropheus) is semi-aggressive (8/10) and Royal Pleco (L190) is moderately assertive (5/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.
What pH do Duboisi Cichlid (Tropheus) and Royal Pleco (L190) need?▾
Their pH requirements do not overlap. Duboisi Cichlid (Tropheus) prefers 8–9, while Royal Pleco (L190) needs 6.5–7.5. This makes them incompatible in the same water chemistry.
How do I manage Duboisi Cichlid (Tropheus)'s territorial behaviour?▾
Provide line-of-sight breaks using rocks, driftwood, and dense planting. A larger tank gives Duboisi Cichlid (Tropheus) space to claim a territory without encroaching on the other fish's area. Adding décor that divides the tank into distinct zones works especially well.
Does Royal Pleco (L190) being nocturnal affect compatibility?▾
Royal Pleco (L190) is most active after lights-out, which naturally reduces daytime encounters with its tank mate. This can actually be beneficial, as both fish get undisturbed time to feed and explore. Just ensure food reaches Royal Pleco (L190) during evening hours.
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