Good Corydoras tank mates are peaceful community fish that share compatible temperature and water chemistry without competing aggressively for the bottom. Small tetras, rasboras and some livebearers can work when parameters overlap. Keep Corydoras in a proper social group, provide smooth substrate and feed sinking foods directly rather than assuming they will survive on leftovers.
Corydoras are easy to combine with many community fish because they are not territorial predators. Their main compatibility risks are usually poor substrate, inadequate group size, food competition and overly aggressive bottom-dwellers.
Good companion traits
- Peaceful temperament.
- No strong bottom-territorial behaviour.
- Overlapping temperature and hardness needs.
- Adult size too small to prey on Corydoras.
- Feeding behaviour that still allows sinking foods to reach the bottom.
Keep the Corydoras group first
Corydoras are social catfish. Their own group should be planned before adding decorative mid-water species.
Protect the bottom zone
Avoid filling the tank floor with several competing bottom species. Caves, plants and open foraging areas should be available without constant territorial pressure.
Feed them deliberately
Corydoras are not 'clean-up crew' that can live on scraps. Use appropriate sinking foods and observe that the group gets a fair share.
Related aquarium tools and guides
Frequently asked questions
Can Corydoras live with tetras?
Often yes, because they use different zones and are generally peaceful.
Can Corydoras live with bettas?
Often, but the betta's individual temperament still matters.
Do Corydoras eat fish waste?
No. They need proper food and do not replace tank maintenance.
Sources and further reading
This guide separates general aquarium arithmetic from fish-welfare decisions. For species-specific limits, always check the needs of the fish you intend to keep.