๐Ÿ  Fish Compatibility Guide

Can Black Ghost Knifefish and Sterbai Cory Live Together?

Updated September 23, 2026 ยท FishCare AI Editorial Team

โŒ Not Compatible โ€” Compatibility Score: 32/100
32/100 โ€” Not Compatible

Black Ghost Knifefish and Sterbai Cory Compatibility Overview

Black Ghost Knifefish and Sterbai Cory are generally not recommended to be housed together. The adult size gap creates a meaningful predation risk. Review the behavior and water details before deciding whether to attempt the pairing.

Compatibility factors for Black Ghost Knifefish and Sterbai Cory
FactorBlack Ghost KnifefishSterbai CoryVerdict
Temperature73โ€“82ยฐF75โ€“82ยฐFโœ… 75โ€“82ยฐF
pH Range6.0โ€“8.06.0โ€“7.6โœ… 6.0โ€“7.6
Temperamentsemipeacefulโš ๏ธ Monitor
Adult Size18.0 in2.6 inโŒ 7ร— difference
Min. Group1+6+See below
Min. Tank Size100 gallons (for both species)โ€”

Compatibility Positives

A stable shared temperature range is available.
Their pH requirements overlap.
Temperament risk is relatively low when normal group sizes are maintained.

Incompatibility Reasons

The adult size gap creates a meaningful predation risk.

Species Profiles

Black Ghost Knifefish โ€” Apteronotus albifrons

Black Ghost Knifefish and Sterbai Cory compatibility โ€” Black Ghost Knifefish

The Black Ghost Knifefish is a unique and elegant addition to the aquarium. With a lifespan of 5-8 years, it requires a minimum tank size of 200 liters. It is a solitary fish with a low aggression level and moderate activity. Its slender body and silver-blue coloration make it a captivating sight.

โ†’ Full Black Ghost Knifefish care guide

Sterbai Cory โ€” Corydoras sterbai

Black Ghost Knifefish and Sterbai Cory compatibility โ€” Sterbai Cory

The Sterbai Cory, known for its dark brown coloration with silver spots, is a popular bottom-dwelling fish. With a peaceful temperament, it is well-suited for community tanks. It requires a well-planted tank with plenty of hiding spots and moderate water flow. Regular water changes and a balanced diet are essential for their health.

โ†’ Full Sterbai Cory care guide

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Black Ghost Knifefish live with Sterbai Cory?

Generally not recommended. Black Ghost Knifefish and Sterbai Cory are generally not recommended to be housed together. The adult size gap creates a meaningful predation risk. Review the behavior and water details before deciding whether to attempt the pairing.

What tank size do I need for Black Ghost Knifefish and Sterbai Cory together?

A minimum of 100 gallons is recommended for keeping Black Ghost Knifefish and Sterbai Cory together. A larger tank improves water stability and reduces territorial conflict.

What temperature suits both Black Ghost Knifefish and Sterbai Cory?

75โ€“82ยฐF โ€” inside Black Ghost Knifefish's 73โ€“82ยฐF and Sterbai Cory's 75โ€“82ยฐF.

Is a Black Ghost Knifefish aggressive toward a Sterbai Cory?

The adult size gap creates a meaningful predation risk.

Related Compatibility Guides

Tank Size for Black Ghost Knifefish and Sterbai Cory

Use the scenario that matches the actual group sizes and temperament you plan to keep.

ScenarioTankWhen it applies
Minimum viable100 galOnly for the recommended minimum groups, mature filtration, and close monitoring.
Recommended community150 galAdds territory, swimming room, and a safer buffer for behavior.
Low-conflict setup220 galBest when keeping larger schools or reducing territorial pressure.