Compatibility Overview
Corydoras Catfish and Swordtail can generally share an aquarium with appropriate planning. Both species prefer overlapping temperature and pH ranges, and neither poses a major aggression risk to the other. A minimum 75-gallon tank is recommended to provide adequate territory and water volume for both species.
| Factor | Corydoras Catfish | Swordtail | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 70–79°F | 65–80°F | ✅ 70–79°F |
| pH Range | 6.0–8.0 | 7.0–8.3 | ✅ 7.0–8.0 |
| Temperament | peaceful | peaceful | ✅ Compatible |
| Adult Size | 2.5 in | 5 in | ⚠️ 2.0× difference |
| Min. Group | 6+ | 3+ | See below |
| Min. Tank Size | 75 gallons (for both species) | — | |
✅ Compatibility Positives
⚠️ Caution Points
Species Profiles
Corydoras Catfish — Corydoras spp.
Armoured bottom-dwelling catfish that are peaceful with all non-aggressive species. Need fine sand substrate to protect delicate barbels.
→ Full Corydoras Catfish care guide
Swordtail — Xiphophorus hellerii
Hardy livebearer with a distinctive elongated lower tail fin in males. Peaceful community fish that tolerate a wide temperature range.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Corydoras Catfish live with Swordtail?
Yes, in a well-planned setup. Corydoras Catfish and Swordtail can generally share an aquarium with appropriate planning. Both species prefer overlapping temperature and pH ranges, and neither poses a major aggression risk to the other. A minimum 75-gallon tank is recommended to provide adequate territory and water volume for both species.
What tank size do I need for Corydoras Catfish and Swordtail together?
A minimum of 75 gallons is recommended for keeping Corydoras Catfish and Swordtail together. A larger tank improves water stability and reduces territorial conflict.
What temperature suits both Corydoras Catfish and Swordtail?
70–79°F
Is a Corydoras Catfish aggressive toward a Swordtail?
Corydoras Catfish is peaceful and Swordtail is peaceful. No major aggression issues are expected between these species.