๐Ÿ  Fish Compatibility Guide

Can Firefish Goby and Sterbai Cory Live Together?

Updated September 23, 2026 ยท FishCare AI Editorial Team

โŒ Not Compatible โ€” Compatibility Score: 0/100
0/100 โ€” Not Compatible

Firefish Goby and Sterbai Cory Compatibility Overview

Firefish Goby and Sterbai Cory are generally not recommended to be housed together. One of these is a marine species and the other is not; they cannot share one aquarium. Their pH ranges do not meet: Firefish Goby wants 8.1โ€“8.4 and Sterbai Cory wants 6.0โ€“7.6. Review the behavior and water details before deciding whether to attempt the pairing.

Compatibility factors for Firefish Goby and Sterbai Cory
FactorFirefish GobySterbai CoryVerdict
Temperature72โ€“82ยฐF75โ€“82ยฐFโœ… 75โ€“82ยฐF
pH Range8.1โ€“8.46.0โ€“7.6โŒ No overlap
Temperamentpeacefulpeacefulโœ… Compatible
Adult Size3.0 in2.6 inโœ… Similar
Min. Group1+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.

Incompatibility Reasons

One of these is a marine species and the other is not; they cannot share one aquarium.
Their pH ranges do not meet: Firefish Goby wants 8.1โ€“8.4 and Sterbai Cory wants 6.0โ€“7.6.

Species Profiles

Firefish Goby โ€” Nemateleotris magnifica

Firefish Goby and Sterbai Cory compatibility โ€” Firefish Goby

The Firefish Goby is a popular choice for saltwater aquariums due to its vibrant colors and peaceful nature. These goby fish thrive in well-maintained tanks with plenty of live rock for them to explore. They are best kept in pairs or small groups and can be a great addition to a community tank with compatible species.

โ†’ Full Firefish Goby care guide

Sterbai Cory โ€” Corydoras sterbai

Firefish Goby 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 Firefish Goby live with Sterbai Cory?

Generally not recommended. Firefish Goby and Sterbai Cory are generally not recommended to be housed together. One of these is a marine species and the other is not; they cannot share one aquarium. Their pH ranges do not meet: Firefish Goby wants 8.1โ€“8.4 and Sterbai Cory wants 6.0โ€“7.6. Review the behavior and water details before deciding whether to attempt the pairing.

What tank size do I need for Firefish Goby and Sterbai Cory together?

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

What temperature suits both Firefish Goby and Sterbai Cory?

75โ€“82ยฐF โ€” inside Firefish Goby's 72โ€“82ยฐF and Sterbai Cory's 75โ€“82ยฐF.

Is a Firefish Goby aggressive toward a Sterbai Cory?

Firefish Goby is peaceful and Sterbai Cory is peaceful. No major aggression issues are expected between these species.

Related Compatibility Guides

Tank Size for Firefish Goby 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.