๐Ÿ  Fish Compatibility Guide

Can Black Neon Tetra and Peppered Cory Live Together?

Updated September 23, 2026 ยท FishCare AI Editorial Team

โœ… Compatible โ€” Compatibility Score: 92/100
92/100 โ€” Compatible

Black Neon Tetra and Peppered Cory Compatibility Overview

Black Neon Tetra and Peppered Cory can generally share an aquarium with appropriate planning. Both species prefer overlapping temperature and pH ranges. Both species are peaceful, and neither poses a major aggression risk to the other. A minimum 20-gallon tank is recommended to provide adequate territory and water volume for both species.

Compatibility factors for Black Neon Tetra and Peppered Cory
FactorBlack Neon TetraPeppered CoryVerdict
Temperature68โ€“82ยฐF72โ€“79ยฐFโœ… 72โ€“79ยฐF
pH Range5.0โ€“7.56.0โ€“7.0โœ… 6.0โ€“7.0
Temperamentpeacefulpeacefulโœ… Compatible
Adult Size1.4 in2.8 inโš ๏ธ 2.0ร— difference
Min. Group8+6+See below
Min. Tank Size20 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.

Caution Points

No major compatibility issues identified for this pair.

Species Profiles

Black Neon Tetra โ€” Hyphessobrycon herbertaxelrodi

Black Neon Tetra and Peppered Cory compatibility โ€” Black Neon Tetra

The Black Neon Tetra is a popular freshwater species known for its vibrant colors and peaceful temperament. It is an excellent addition to community tanks, thriving in groups of 6 or more. These tetras require a well-maintained aquarium with a flowing current and plenty of swimming space. With proper care, they can live up to 5 years.

โ†’ Full Black Neon Tetra care guide

Peppered Cory โ€” Corydoras paleatus

Black Neon Tetra and Peppered Cory compatibility โ€” Peppered Cory

The Peppered Cory is a popular freshwater fish known for its peaceful nature and unique appearance. They are suitable for beginners and can thrive in a community tank. These fish are small, reaching up to 7 cm in size, and are easily recognizable by their dark brown bodies with white spots.

โ†’ Full Peppered Cory care guide

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Black Neon Tetra live with Peppered Cory?

Yes, in a well-planned setup. Black Neon Tetra and Peppered Cory can generally share an aquarium with appropriate planning. Both species prefer overlapping temperature and pH ranges. Both species are peaceful, and neither poses a major aggression risk to the other. A minimum 20-gallon tank is recommended to provide adequate territory and water volume for both species.

What tank size do I need for Black Neon Tetra and Peppered Cory together?

A minimum of 20 gallons is recommended for keeping Black Neon Tetra and Peppered Cory together. A larger tank improves water stability and reduces territorial conflict.

What temperature suits both Black Neon Tetra and Peppered Cory?

72โ€“79ยฐF โ€” inside Black Neon Tetra's 68โ€“82ยฐF and Peppered Cory's 72โ€“79ยฐF.

Is a Black Neon Tetra aggressive toward a Peppered Cory?

Black Neon Tetra is peaceful and Peppered Cory is peaceful. No major aggression issues are expected between these species.

Related Compatibility Guides

Tank Size for Black Neon Tetra and Peppered Cory

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

ScenarioTankWhen it applies
Minimum viable20 galOnly for the recommended minimum groups, mature filtration, and close monitoring.
Recommended community29 galAdds territory, swimming room, and a safer buffer for behavior.
Low-conflict setup55 galBest when keeping larger schools or reducing territorial pressure.