Can Flash Pleco (L204) and Uaru Live Together?

Reviewed by Guidarium Editorial DeskUpdated May 6, 2026
Ideal Tank Mates

Yes, Flash Pleco (L204) and Uaru are ideal tank mates. Both species share compatible water parameters and peaceful temperaments, making them well-suited for a community aquarium. A minimum tank size of 400 litres is recommended.


At a Glance

Flash Pleco (L204)

Panaqolus albomaculatus

Uaru

Uaru amphiacanthoides

🐠Family Group
Flash Pleco (L204)
Catfish
Uaru
Cichlids - South American
Temperament
Flash Pleco (L204)
Mostly Peaceful (4/10)
Uaru
Mostly Peaceful (4/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Flash Pleco (L204)
24–30°C
Uaru
27–30°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Flash Pleco (L204)
6–7.5
Uaru
5–7
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Flash Pleco (L204)
2–15
Uaru
1–8
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Flash Pleco (L204)
Freshwater Only
Uaru
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Flash Pleco (L204)
Moderate
Uaru
Low
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 400 L
Flash Pleco (L204)
110 L
Uaru
400 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 1 zone
Flash Pleco (L204)
Bottom
Uaru
MiddleBottom
🏷️Behavior Tags
Flash Pleco (L204)
Shy / Slow Moving (Easily Stressed)Territorial (Defends specific area)NocturnalPlant Destroyer
Uaru
Plant DestroyerShy / Slow Moving (Easily Stressed)Shrimp Eater
Stocking calculator

Can your tank handle Flash Pleco (L204) and Uaru?

Compatibility is only part of the answer. Test both fish with your real tank size, current stock, and maintenance needs to see if you have enough space and a safe stocking level before you add them.

Flash Pleco (L204)
Uaru
Test both in my tank

Behaviour & Temperament

Both Flash Pleco (L204) and Uaru are generally mild-mannered species with an aggression score of 4/10. Their matching temperaments mean neither fish is likely to dominate the other in a shared aquarium.

Flash Pleco (L204) and Uaru 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.

Worth noting: Flash Pleco (L204) 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 27°C and 30°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 28.5°C) for optimal comfort.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 6 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 2–8 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

Tank Setup

To house Flash Pleco (L204) and Uaru together, plan for an aquarium of at least 400 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: Driftwood (Digestion/Hiding), Smooth Gravel (Sensitive Barbels), Sand (Sifters). 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.

Why This Pairing Works in Practice

Flash Pleco (L204) and Uaru work best when the tank gives each fish enough room to use its preferred level of the aquarium and enough cover to avoid constant visual contact. The score matters, but the real-world success usually comes from matching their pace, keeping water stable, and resisting the urge to crowd the tank just because the pair looks safe on paper.

Suitable Tank Sizes

Standard aquarium sizes large enough for both Flash Pleco (L204) and Uaru.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Flash Pleco (L204) and Uaru live together?

Yes. Flash Pleco (L204) and Uaru are considered ideal tank mates. Their water parameters, temperaments, and behaviour profiles are well matched for a community aquarium.

What size tank do Flash Pleco (L204) and Uaru need?

A minimum of 400 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 Flash Pleco (L204) and Uaru together?

Keep the aquarium between 27°C and 30°C. A target of around 28.5°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are Flash Pleco (L204) or Uaru aggressive?

Flash Pleco (L204) is generally mild-mannered (4/10) and Uaru is generally mild-mannered (4/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Flash Pleco (L204) and Uaru need?

Both species overlap in the 6–7 pH range. Consistency is key — avoid sudden swings, and test regularly to stay within this window.

How do I manage Flash Pleco (L204)'s territorial behaviour?

Provide line-of-sight breaks using rocks, driftwood, and dense planting. A larger tank gives Flash Pleco (L204) 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 Flash Pleco (L204) being nocturnal affect compatibility?

Flash Pleco (L204) 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 Flash Pleco (L204) during evening hours.

Editorial Review

Guidarium Editorial Desk

Reviewed against Guidarium care, stocking, and compatibility standards. Read the editorial policy.

Last reviewed
May 6, 2026
Last updated
May 6, 2026
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