๐Ÿ  Fish Compatibility Guide

Can Lemon Tetra and Sterbai Cory Live Together?

Updated September 23, 2026 ยท FishCare AI Editorial Team

โœ… Compatible โ€” Compatibility Score: 97/100
97/100 โ€” Compatible

Lemon Tetra and Sterbai Cory Compatibility Overview

Lemon Tetra and Sterbai 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 20-gallon tank is recommended to provide adequate territory and water volume for both species.

Compatibility factors for Lemon Tetra and Sterbai Cory
FactorLemon TetraSterbai CoryVerdict
Temperature68โ€“82ยฐF75โ€“82ยฐFโœ… 75โ€“82ยฐF
pH Range5.0โ€“7.56.0โ€“7.6โœ… 6.0โ€“7.5
Temperamentpeacefulpeacefulโœ… Compatible
Adult Size1.6 in2.6 inโœ… Similar
Min. Group8+6+See below
Min. Tank Size20 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

Lemon Tetra โ€” Hyphessobrycon pulchripinnis

Lemon Tetra and Sterbai Cory compatibility โ€” Lemon Tetra

The Lemon Tetra is a vibrant, peaceful addition to freshwater tanks. Known for its striking yellow and red colors, it is well-suited for community tanks. They are active swimmers and thrive in groups. Maintaining stable water conditions is key to their health.

โ†’ Full Lemon Tetra care guide

Sterbai Cory โ€” Corydoras sterbai

Lemon Tetra 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 Lemon Tetra live with Sterbai Cory?

Yes, in a well-planned setup. Lemon Tetra and Sterbai 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 20-gallon tank is recommended to provide adequate territory and water volume for both species.

What tank size do I need for Lemon Tetra and Sterbai Cory together?

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

What temperature suits both Lemon Tetra and Sterbai Cory?

75โ€“82ยฐF โ€” inside Lemon Tetra's 68โ€“82ยฐF and Sterbai Cory's 75โ€“82ยฐF.

Is a Lemon Tetra aggressive toward a Sterbai Cory?

Lemon Tetra is peaceful and Sterbai Cory is peaceful. No major aggression issues are expected between these species.

Related Compatibility Guides

Tank Size for Lemon Tetra 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.