๐Ÿ  Fish Compatibility Guide

Can Corydoras and Keyhole Cichlid Live Together?

Updated September 23, 2026 ยท FishCare AI Editorial Team

โœ… Compatible โ€” Compatibility Score: 94/100
94/100 โ€” Compatible

Corydoras and Keyhole Cichlid Compatibility Overview

Corydoras Catfish and Keyhole Cichlid 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 55-gallon tank is recommended to provide adequate territory and water volume for both species.

Compatibility factors for Corydoras Catfish and Keyhole Cichlid
FactorCorydoras CatfishKeyhole CichlidVerdict
Temperature70โ€“79ยฐF70โ€“82ยฐFโœ… 70โ€“79ยฐF
pH Range6.0โ€“8.04.0โ€“7.5โœ… 6.0โ€“7.5
Temperamentpeacefulpeacefulโœ… Compatible
Adult Size2.5 in4.3 inโœ… Similar
Min. Group6+2+See below
Min. Tank Size55 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

Corydoras Catfish โ€” Corydoras spp.

Corydoras and Keyhole Cichlid compatibility โ€” Corydoras Catfish

Armoured bottom-dwelling catfish that are peaceful with all non-aggressive species. Need fine sand substrate to protect delicate barbels.

โ†’ Full Corydoras Catfish care guide

Keyhole Cichlid โ€” Cleithracara maronii

Corydoras and Keyhole Cichlid compatibility โ€” Keyhole Cichlid

The Keyhole Cichlid is a popular choice for beginners due to its relatively easy care and peaceful temperament. These fish are known for their distinct keyhole marking and vibrant coloration. They do well in a community tank with other peaceful species, but should be provided with plenty of hiding spots to feel secure.

โ†’ Full Keyhole Cichlid care guide

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Corydoras Catfish live with Keyhole Cichlid?

Yes, in a well-planned setup. Corydoras Catfish and Keyhole Cichlid 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 55-gallon tank is recommended to provide adequate territory and water volume for both species.

What tank size do I need for Corydoras Catfish and Keyhole Cichlid together?

A minimum of 55 gallons is recommended for keeping Corydoras Catfish and Keyhole Cichlid together. A larger tank improves water stability and reduces territorial conflict.

What temperature suits both Corydoras Catfish and Keyhole Cichlid?

70โ€“79ยฐF โ€” inside Corydoras Catfish's 70โ€“79ยฐF and Keyhole Cichlid's 70โ€“82ยฐF.

Is a Corydoras Catfish aggressive toward a Keyhole Cichlid?

Corydoras Catfish is peaceful and Keyhole Cichlid is peaceful. No major aggression issues are expected between these species.

Related Compatibility Guides

Tank Size for Corydoras and Keyhole Cichlid

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

ScenarioTankWhen it applies
Minimum viable55 galOnly for the recommended minimum groups, mature filtration, and close monitoring.
Recommended community75 galAdds territory, swimming room, and a safer buffer for behavior.
Low-conflict setup125 galBest when keeping larger schools or reducing territorial pressure.