Oscar and Pygmy Corydoras Compatibility Overview
Oscar and Pygmy Corydoras are generally not recommended to be housed together. Oscars will eat pygmy corydoras. The adult size gap creates a meaningful predation risk. Review the behavior and water details before deciding whether to attempt the pairing.
| Factor | Oscar | Pygmy Corydoras | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 74โ81ยฐF | 72โ79ยฐF | โ 74โ79ยฐF |
| pH Range | 6.0โ8.0 | 6.0โ7.5 | โ 6.0โ7.5 |
| Temperament | aggressive | peaceful | โ Risk |
| Adult Size | 14 in | 1 in | โ 14ร difference |
| Min. Group | 1+ | 6+ | See below |
| Min. Tank Size | 100 gallons (for both species) | โ | |
Compatibility Positives
Incompatibility Reasons
Species Profiles
Oscar โ Astronotus ocellatus
Intelligent but aggressive cichlids that will eat any fish small enough to fit in their mouth. Require large tanks (75+ gallons) and robust tank mates.
Pygmy Corydoras โ Corydoras pygmaeus
Tiny armoured catfish that school in open water as well as on the substrate. Peaceful with all non-aggressive species.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Oscar live with Pygmy Corydoras?
Generally not recommended. Oscar and Pygmy Corydoras are generally not recommended to be housed together. Oscars will eat pygmy corydoras. The adult size gap creates a meaningful predation risk. Review the behavior and water details before deciding whether to attempt the pairing.
What tank size do I need for Oscar and Pygmy Corydoras together?
A minimum of 100 gallons is recommended for keeping Oscar and Pygmy Corydoras together. A larger tank improves water stability and reduces territorial conflict.
What temperature suits both Oscar and Pygmy Corydoras?
74โ79ยฐF โ inside Oscar's 74โ81ยฐF and Pygmy Corydoras's 72โ79ยฐF.
Is a Oscar aggressive toward a Pygmy Corydoras?
The adult size gap creates a meaningful predation risk.
Related Compatibility Guides
Tank Size for Oscar and Pygmy Corydoras
Use the scenario that matches the actual group sizes and temperament you plan to keep.
| Scenario | Tank | When it applies |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum viable | 100 gal | Only for the recommended minimum groups, mature filtration, and close monitoring. |
| Recommended community | 150 gal | Adds territory, swimming room, and a safer buffer for behavior. |
| Low-conflict setup | 220 gal | Best when keeping larger schools or reducing territorial pressure. |