๐Ÿ  Fish Compatibility Guide

Can Black Phantom Tetra and Sterbai Cory Live Together?

Updated September 23, 2026 ยท FishCare AI Editorial Team

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

Black Phantom Tetra and Sterbai Cory Compatibility Overview

Black Phantom Tetra and Sterbai 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 Phantom Tetra and Sterbai Cory
FactorBlack Phantom TetraSterbai CoryVerdict
Temperature68โ€“82ยฐF75โ€“82ยฐFโœ… 75โ€“82ยฐF
pH Range5.0โ€“7.06.0โ€“7.6โœ… 6.0โ€“7.0
Temperamentpeacefulpeacefulโœ… Compatible
Adult Size1.4 in2.6 inโœ… Similar
Min. Group8+6+See below
Min. Tank Size20 gallons (for both species)โ€”

Compatibility Positives

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

Caution Points

Their pH ranges overlap only partly, so aim for the shared band and keep it steady.

Species Profiles

Black Phantom Tetra โ€” Hyphessobrycon megalopterus

Black Phantom Tetra and Sterbai Cory compatibility โ€” Black Phantom Tetra

The Black Phantom Tetra is a popular freshwater fish known for its striking black and silver coloration. It is generally peaceful and can be kept in a community tank with other non-aggressive species. They require a well-maintained tank with a moderate water flow and a good cover of plants.

โ†’ Full Black Phantom Tetra care guide

Sterbai Cory โ€” Corydoras sterbai

Black Phantom Tetra 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 Phantom Tetra live with Sterbai Cory?

Yes, in a well-planned setup. Black Phantom Tetra and Sterbai 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 Phantom Tetra and Sterbai Cory together?

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

What temperature suits both Black Phantom Tetra and Sterbai Cory?

75โ€“82ยฐF โ€” inside Black Phantom Tetra's 68โ€“82ยฐF and Sterbai Cory's 75โ€“82ยฐF.

Is a Black Phantom Tetra aggressive toward a Sterbai Cory?

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

Related Compatibility Guides

Tank Size for Black Phantom Tetra and Sterbai 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.