Corydoras and Koi Compatibility Overview
Corydoras Catfish and Koi are generally not recommended to be housed together. Koi is a cool-water fish and Corydoras Catfish is tropical, so the usable temperature range decides this pairing. The adult size gap creates a meaningful predation risk. Review the behavior and water details before deciding whether to attempt the pairing.
| Factor | Corydoras Catfish | Koi | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 70โ79ยฐF | 50โ75ยฐF | โ 70โ75ยฐF |
| pH Range | 6.0โ8.0 | 7.0โ8.5 | โ 7.0โ8.0 |
| Temperament | peaceful | peaceful | โ Compatible |
| Adult Size | 2.5 in | 24 in | โ 10ร difference |
| Min. Group | 6+ | 2+ | See below |
| Min. Tank Size | 100 gallons (for both species) | โ | |
Compatibility Positives
Incompatibility Reasons
Species Profiles
Corydoras Catfish โ Corydoras spp.
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
Koi โ Cyprinus rubrofuscus
Large pond fish that require hundreds of gallons and cool water. Will eat any fish small enough to fit in their mouth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Corydoras Catfish live with Koi?
Generally not recommended. Corydoras Catfish and Koi are generally not recommended to be housed together. Koi is a cool-water fish and Corydoras Catfish is tropical, so the usable temperature range decides this pairing. 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 Corydoras Catfish and Koi together?
A minimum of 100 gallons is recommended for keeping Corydoras Catfish and Koi together. A larger tank improves water stability and reduces territorial conflict.
What temperature suits both Corydoras Catfish and Koi?
70โ75ยฐF โ inside Corydoras Catfish's 70โ79ยฐF and Koi's 50โ75ยฐF.
Is a Corydoras Catfish aggressive toward a Koi?
The adult size gap creates a meaningful predation risk.
Related Compatibility Guides
Tank Size for Corydoras and Koi
Use the scenario that matches the actual group sizes and temperament you plan to keep.
| Scenario | Tank | When it applies |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum viable | 100 gal | Only for the recommended minimum groups, mature filtration, and close monitoring. |
| Recommended community | 150 gal | Adds territory, swimming room, and a safer buffer for behavior. |
| Low-conflict setup | 220 gal | Best when keeping larger schools or reducing territorial pressure. |