Pygmy Corydoras and Tiger Barb Compatibility Overview
Pygmy Corydoras and Tiger Barb can generally share an aquarium with appropriate planning. Both species prefer overlapping temperature and pH ranges. Pygmy Corydoras is peaceful and Tiger Barb is semi, so give them room and cover rather than assuming they will ignore each other. A minimum 20-gallon tank is recommended to provide adequate territory and water volume for both species.
| Factor | Pygmy Corydoras | Tiger Barb | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 72โ79ยฐF | 68โ79ยฐF | โ 72โ79ยฐF |
| pH Range | 6.0โ7.5 | 6.0โ8.0 | โ 6.0โ7.5 |
| Temperament | peaceful | semi | โ ๏ธ Monitor |
| Adult Size | 1 in | 2.75 in | โ ๏ธ 2.8ร difference |
| Min. Group | 6+ | 6+ | See below |
| Min. Tank Size | 20 gallons (for both species) | โ | |
Compatibility Positives
Caution Points
Species Profiles
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.
โ Full Pygmy Corydoras care guide
Tiger Barb โ Puntigrus tetrazona
Striking striped barbs that are notorious fin-nippers. Must be kept in groups of 6+ to redirect aggression within the school. Incompatible with long-finned fish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Pygmy Corydoras live with Tiger Barb?
Yes, in a well-planned setup. Pygmy Corydoras and Tiger Barb can generally share an aquarium with appropriate planning. Both species prefer overlapping temperature and pH ranges. Pygmy Corydoras is peaceful and Tiger Barb is semi, so give them room and cover rather than assuming they will ignore each 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 Pygmy Corydoras and Tiger Barb together?
A minimum of 20 gallons is recommended for keeping Pygmy Corydoras and Tiger Barb together. A larger tank improves water stability and reduces territorial conflict.
What temperature suits both Pygmy Corydoras and Tiger Barb?
72โ79ยฐF โ inside Pygmy Corydoras's 72โ79ยฐF and Tiger Barb's 68โ79ยฐF.
Is a Pygmy Corydoras aggressive toward a Tiger Barb?
Pygmy Corydoras is peaceful and Tiger Barb is semi. No major aggression issues are expected between these species.
Related Compatibility Guides
Tank Size for Pygmy Corydoras and Tiger Barb
Use the scenario that matches the actual group sizes and temperament you plan to keep.
| Scenario | Tank | When it applies |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum viable | 20 gal | Only for the recommended minimum groups, mature filtration, and close monitoring. |
| Recommended community | 29 gal | Adds territory, swimming room, and a safer buffer for behavior. |
| Low-conflict setup | 55 gal | Best when keeping larger schools or reducing territorial pressure. |