Compatibility Overview
Angelfish and Pygmy Corydoras are generally not recommended to be housed together. The issues listed above — whether water parameter incompatibility, predation risk, or aggression — create conditions where one or both fish are likely to suffer harm or chronic stress.
| Factor | Angelfish | Pygmy Corydoras | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 74–84°F | 72–79°F | ✅ 74–79°F |
| pH Range | 6.0–7.5 | 6.0–7.5 | ✅ 6.0–7.5 |
| Temperament | semi | peaceful | ⚠️ Monitor |
| Adult Size | 6 in | 1 in | ❌ 6× difference |
| Min. Group | 1+ | 6+ | See below |
| Min. Tank Size | 75 gallons (for both species) | — | |
✅ Compatibility Positives
❌ Incompatibility Reasons
Species Profiles
Angelfish — Pterophyllum scalare
Elegant South American cichlids with long flowing fins. Generally peaceful but territorial when breeding and will eat very small fish.
Pygmy Corydoras — Corydoras pygmaeus
Tiny armoured catfish that school in open water as well as on the substrate. Peaceful with all non-aggressive species.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Angelfish live with Pygmy Corydoras?
Generally not recommended. Angelfish and Pygmy Corydoras are generally not recommended to be housed together. The issues listed above — whether water parameter incompatibility, predation risk, or aggression — create conditions where one or both fish are likely to suffer harm or chronic stress.
What tank size do I need for Angelfish and Pygmy Corydoras together?
A minimum of 75 gallons is recommended for keeping Angelfish and Pygmy Corydoras together. A larger tank improves water stability and reduces territorial conflict.
What temperature suits both Angelfish and Pygmy Corydoras?
74–79°F
Is a Angelfish aggressive toward a Pygmy Corydoras?
Angelfish is semi and Pygmy Corydoras is peaceful. Narrow temperature overlap (74–79°F) — keeping the tank at exactly 75–78°F is needed for both species.