Compatibility Overview
Panda Cory and Swordtail can generally share an aquarium with appropriate planning. Both species prefer overlapping temperature and pH ranges, 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.
| Factor | Panda Cory | Swordtail | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 72–79°F | 65–80°F | ✅ 72–79°F |
| pH Range | 6.5–7.5 | 7.0–8.3 | ⚠️ 7.0–7.5 (narrow) |
| Temperament | semi | peaceful | ⚠️ Monitor |
| Adult Size | 2.0 in | 5 in | ⚠️ 2.5× difference |
| Min. Group | 1+ | 3+ | See below |
| Min. Tank Size | 55 gallons (for both species) | — | |
✅ Compatibility Positives
⚠️ Caution Points
Species Profiles
Panda Cory — Aquarium species
The Corydoras panda, known for its distinctive white face and black body, is a popular freshwater fish. They are peaceful and make excellent additions to community tanks. They are moderately active and can thrive in a well-maintained environment. As bottom-dwellers, they require a tank with plenty of hiding spots. Their diet should be balanced with a variety
Swordtail — Xiphophorus hellerii
Hardy livebearer with a distinctive elongated lower tail fin in males. Peaceful community fish that tolerate a wide temperature range.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Panda Cory live with Swordtail?
Yes, in a well-planned setup. Panda Cory and Swordtail can generally share an aquarium with appropriate planning. Both species prefer overlapping temperature and pH ranges, 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 Panda Cory and Swordtail together?
A minimum of 55 gallons is recommended for keeping Panda Cory and Swordtail together. A larger tank improves water stability and reduces territorial conflict.
What temperature suits both Panda Cory and Swordtail?
72–79°F
Is a Panda Cory aggressive toward a Swordtail?
Panda Cory is semi and Swordtail is peaceful. No major aggression issues are expected between these species.
Related Compatibility Guides
Compatibility score breakdown
The overall score is weighted across water chemistry, behavior, adult size, swimming zone, and social needs. A score is a planning aid—not a guarantee for individual fish.
| Factor | Score |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 100/100 |
| Ph | 50/100 |
| Temperament | 75/100 |
| Adult Size | 72/100 |
| Swim Zone | 92/100 |
| Social Needs | 92/100 |
Tank size scenarios
Use the scenario that matches the actual group sizes and temperament you plan to keep.
| Scenario | Tank | When it applies |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum viable | 55 gal | Only for the recommended minimum groups, mature filtration, and close monitoring. |
| Recommended community | 75 gal | Adds territory, swimming room, and a safer buffer for behavior. |
| Low-conflict setup | 125 gal | Best when keeping larger schools or reducing territorial pressure. |