Oscar and Sterbai Cory Compatibility Overview
Oscar and Sterbai Cory are generally not recommended to be housed together. The adult size gap creates a meaningful predation risk. Oscar is aggressive and Sterbai Cory is peaceful. Expect chasing and fin damage unless the tank is oversized, heavily planted, and watched closely. Review the behavior and water details before deciding whether to attempt the pairing.
| Factor | Oscar | Sterbai Cory | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 74โ81ยฐF | 75โ82ยฐF | โ 75โ81ยฐF |
| pH Range | 6.0โ8.0 | 6.0โ7.6 | โ 6.0โ7.6 |
| Temperament | aggressive | peaceful | โ Risk |
| Adult Size | 14 in | 2.6 in | โ 5ร 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.
Sterbai Cory โ Corydoras sterbai
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Oscar live with Sterbai Cory?
Generally not recommended. Oscar and Sterbai Cory are generally not recommended to be housed together. The adult size gap creates a meaningful predation risk. Oscar is aggressive and Sterbai Cory is peaceful. Expect chasing and fin damage unless the tank is oversized, heavily planted, and watched closely. Review the behavior and water details before deciding whether to attempt the pairing.
What tank size do I need for Oscar and Sterbai Cory together?
A minimum of 100 gallons is recommended for keeping Oscar and Sterbai Cory together. A larger tank improves water stability and reduces territorial conflict.
What temperature suits both Oscar and Sterbai Cory?
75โ81ยฐF โ inside Oscar's 74โ81ยฐF and Sterbai Cory's 75โ82ยฐF.
Is a Oscar aggressive toward a Sterbai Cory?
The adult size gap creates a meaningful predation risk.
Related Compatibility Guides
Tank Size for Oscar and Sterbai Cory
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. |