๐Ÿ  Fish Compatibility Guide

Can Keyhole Cichlid and Peppered Cory Live Together?

Updated September 23, 2026 ยท FishCare AI Editorial Team

โœ… Compatible โ€” Compatibility Score: 98/100
98/100 โ€” Compatible

Keyhole Cichlid and Peppered Cory Compatibility Overview

Keyhole Cichlid and Peppered Cory 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 Keyhole Cichlid and Peppered Cory
FactorKeyhole CichlidPeppered CoryVerdict
Temperature70โ€“82ยฐF72โ€“79ยฐFโœ… 72โ€“79ยฐF
pH Range4.0โ€“7.56.0โ€“7.0โœ… 6.0โ€“7.0
Temperamentpeacefulpeacefulโœ… Compatible
Adult Size4.3 in2.8 inโœ… Similar
Min. Group2+6+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

Keyhole Cichlid โ€” Cleithracara maronii

Keyhole Cichlid and Peppered Cory 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

Peppered Cory โ€” Corydoras paleatus

Keyhole Cichlid and Peppered Cory compatibility โ€” Peppered Cory

The Peppered Cory is a popular freshwater fish known for its peaceful nature and unique appearance. They are suitable for beginners and can thrive in a community tank. These fish are small, reaching up to 7 cm in size, and are easily recognizable by their dark brown bodies with white spots.

โ†’ Full Peppered Cory care guide

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Keyhole Cichlid live with Peppered Cory?

Yes, in a well-planned setup. Keyhole Cichlid and Peppered Cory 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 Keyhole Cichlid and Peppered Cory together?

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

What temperature suits both Keyhole Cichlid and Peppered Cory?

72โ€“79ยฐF โ€” inside Keyhole Cichlid's 70โ€“82ยฐF and Peppered Cory's 72โ€“79ยฐF.

Is a Keyhole Cichlid aggressive toward a Peppered Cory?

Keyhole Cichlid is peaceful and Peppered Cory is peaceful. No major aggression issues are expected between these species.

Related Compatibility Guides

Tank Size for Keyhole Cichlid and Peppered Cory

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.