Can Freshwater Sole and Peacock Eel Live Together?

Freshwater Sole is a generally mild-mannered species (4/10), while Peacock Eel is peaceful (2/10). This modest difference means Freshwater Sole may occasionally assert dominance over Peacock Eel.

Freshwater Sole and Peacock Eel 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: Aggressive eaters may outcompete shy fish for food, leading to malnutrition.

Worth noting: Freshwater Sole is nocturnal and will be most active after lights-out, naturally reducing daytime encounters. Also, Peacock Eel is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential.

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 23°C and 28°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 25.5°C) for optimal comfort.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 6.5 and 7.8. Maintaining a stable value within this band is more important than hitting an exact number.

For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 5–15 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

To house Freshwater Sole and Peacock Eel together, plan for an aquarium of at least 150 litres with a minimum length of 90 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: Sand (Sifters), Smooth Gravel (Sensitive Barbels), Plants - Densely covered. Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.

Both species do well with low (still water) water movement, so a standard filtration setup rated for the tank volume should suffice.

Feeding time deserves special attention with this pairing. Peacock Eel is an aggressive eater that may prevent Freshwater Sole from getting enough food.

Because Peacock Eel is a fast, competitive feeder, consider using sinking pellets or feeding at opposite ends of the setup to ensure Freshwater Sole receives an adequate share.