Can Blue Emperor Tetra Live With Pygmy Corydoras?
Yes, blue emperor tetras and pygmy corydoras share a tank well in 20 gallons or larger since both are peaceful schooling fish with overlapping water requirements.
Why
- Blue emperor tetras grow to 1.5-2 inches and swim in the middle water column.
- Pygmy corydoras grow to 1 inch and are bottom dwellers, so they rarely encounter each other.
- Both species tolerate temperatures of 73-79°F without stress.
- Both species thrive in pH 6.4-7.4, which gives a clean overlap for shared water.
- Both species are schooling fish that do best in groups of 6 or more.
What could go wrong
Pygmy corydoras need sand substrate to protect their barbels. If kept on sharp gravel, they develop barbel erosion and infection, which suppresses their immune system.
Gear for a shared tank
Sized for the 20 gallon minimum this pairing needs. Affiliate links — we earn a small commission if you buy through them.
AquaClear 30 Power Filter
Oversized filtration is what lets you stock two species together without water quality crashing. Rated for a tank slightly larger than the 20 gallon minimum.
Eheim Jager 150W Thermostat Heater
Holds a steady temperature inside the 73-79°F window both species need.
API Freshwater Master Test Kit
Keep ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate in check. Two-species tanks have more bioload and less margin for error than single-species setups.
Related compatibility questions
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