๐Ÿ  Fish Compatibility Guide

Can Frontosa Cichlid and Pygmy Corydoras Live Together?

Updated September 23, 2026 ยท FishCare AI Editorial Team

โŒ Not Compatible โ€” Compatibility Score: 32/100
32/100 โ€” Not Compatible

Frontosa Cichlid and Pygmy Corydoras Compatibility Overview

Frontosa Cichlid and Pygmy Corydoras are generally not recommended to be housed together. The adult size gap creates a meaningful predation risk. Their pH ranges do not meet: Frontosa Cichlid wants 8.0โ€“9.0 and Pygmy Corydoras wants 6.0โ€“7.5. Review the behavior and water details before deciding whether to attempt the pairing.

Compatibility factors for Frontosa Cichlid and Pygmy Corydoras
FactorFrontosa CichlidPygmy CorydorasVerdict
Temperature73โ€“81ยฐF72โ€“79ยฐFโœ… 73โ€“79ยฐF
pH Range8.0โ€“9.06.0โ€“7.5โŒ No overlap
Temperamentsemipeacefulโš ๏ธ Monitor
Adult Size10.0 in1 inโŒ 10ร— difference
Min. Group5+6+See below
Min. Tank Size100 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

The adult size gap creates a meaningful predation risk.
Their pH ranges do not meet: Frontosa Cichlid wants 8.0โ€“9.0 and Pygmy Corydoras wants 6.0โ€“7.5.

Species Profiles

Frontosa Cichlid โ€” Cyphotilapia frontosa

Frontosa Cichlid and Pygmy Corydoras compatibility โ€” Frontosa Cichlid

The Frontosa Cichlid is a popular aquarium fish known for its vibrant colors and peaceful demeanor. They are suitable for beginners and can thrive in a well-maintained community tank. Providing ample space and avoiding overcrowding is essential for their well-being.

โ†’ Full Frontosa Cichlid care guide

Pygmy Corydoras โ€” Corydoras pygmaeus

Frontosa Cichlid and Pygmy Corydoras compatibility โ€” Pygmy Corydoras

Tiny armoured catfish that school in open water as well as on the substrate. Peaceful with all non-aggressive species.

โ†’ Full Pygmy Corydoras care guide

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Frontosa Cichlid live with Pygmy Corydoras?

Generally not recommended. Frontosa Cichlid and Pygmy Corydoras are generally not recommended to be housed together. The adult size gap creates a meaningful predation risk. Their pH ranges do not meet: Frontosa Cichlid wants 8.0โ€“9.0 and Pygmy Corydoras wants 6.0โ€“7.5. Review the behavior and water details before deciding whether to attempt the pairing.

What tank size do I need for Frontosa Cichlid and Pygmy Corydoras together?

A minimum of 100 gallons is recommended for keeping Frontosa Cichlid and Pygmy Corydoras together. A larger tank improves water stability and reduces territorial conflict.

What temperature suits both Frontosa Cichlid and Pygmy Corydoras?

73โ€“79ยฐF โ€” inside Frontosa Cichlid's 73โ€“81ยฐF and Pygmy Corydoras's 72โ€“79ยฐF.

Is a Frontosa Cichlid aggressive toward a Pygmy Corydoras?

The adult size gap creates a meaningful predation risk.

Related Compatibility Guides

Tank Size for Frontosa Cichlid and Pygmy Corydoras

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

ScenarioTankWhen it applies
Minimum viable228 galOnly for the recommended minimum groups, mature filtration, and close monitoring.
Recommended community350 galAdds territory, swimming room, and a safer buffer for behavior.
Low-conflict setup450 galBest when keeping larger schools or reducing territorial pressure.